Tungkillo residents oppose proposed data centre near South Australian dark sky reserve

Mixed · 2Melbourne-based developer Quantum DC has proposed a hyper-scale data centre and energy precinct, the Tungkillo Compute and Energy Hub, on a 220-hectare parcel at Tungkillo, about 55 kilometres east of Adelaide. 1 2 Mixed · 2Residents are opposing it, citing possible light and noise pollution and fearing damage to the rolling-hill landscape and the area's dark sky reputation. 1 2 Left · 1Resident Magdalene Lippett told the ABC locals were worried the planned 1,200-megawatt development would infringe on the area's beauty and dark sky feature, and that sound would carry across the valleys into homes and disturb animals. 1

Left · 1The ABC says Tungkillo lies just within the borders of the River Murray Dark Sky Reserve, an internationally accredited area protected from light pollution and described as an Australian first. 1 Mixed · 2A Quantum DC spokesperson told the ABC the proposed site is more than 5 kilometres outside the reserve; the Times of India likewise says the site is 5 km away but that residents worry about wider effects on the landscape. 1 2 Left · 1Quantum DC says it chose the site for its proximity to existing energy infrastructure and renewable energy projects under construction, and that the hub would create hundreds of jobs in construction and operation. 1

Left · 1Chief executive Alby Tomassi said the company would hold two community drop-in sessions before submitting a formal application, and that studies on traffic, noise, air quality, lighting, water, flora and fauna, Aboriginal heritage and bushfire are under way, with findings to be public with the application. 1 Left · 1Mid Murray Council Mayor Simone Bailey said she has concerns, particularly about the location, but would wait for the community session later in the week before forming an official stance. 1 Mixed · 2The South Australian government said it had not received any formal development application and that a proponent would have to show how it would manage energy, water, cooling and impacts on surrounding areas. 1 2