Right now, AI data-centre mega-hubs as large as 350 hectares are being planned across Australia – that’s the equivalent of 175 MCG playing fields.

And the energy they need to fuel them is just as huge: more than the total output of an entire coal plant.

The solution? So-called “shadow grids” built in partnership between the data centres and big gas, where gas-fired power plants are placed directly on site, powering the centres and generating huge emissions in the process.

Today, Ketan Joshi, climate expert and co-author of a new Greenpeace report, on the relationship between fossil fuel companies and data centres, and Australia’s vulnerability in the AI race.


 

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

 

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Guest: Climate expert Ketan Joshi

Photo: REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol

Right now, AI data-centre mega-hubs as large as 350 hectares are being planned across Australia &ndash; that&rsquo;s the equivalent of 175 MCG playing fields.
And the energy they need to fuel them is just as huge: more than the total output of an entire coal plant.
The solution? So-called &ldquo;shadow grids&rdquo; built in partnership between the data centres and big gas, where gas-fired power plants are placed directly on site, powering the centres and generating huge emissions in the process.
Today, Ketan Joshi, climate expert and co-author of a new Greenpeace report, on the relationship between fossil fuel companies and data centres, and Australia&rsquo;s vulnerability in the AI race. 
&nbsp;
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at <a href="http://7ampodcast.com.au/support">7ampodcast.com.au/support</a>.
&nbsp;
Socials: Stay in touch with us on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/7ampodcast">Instagram</a>
Guest: Climate expert Ketan Joshi
Photo:&nbsp;REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol

An independent daily news show. We feature the country’s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

An independent daily news show. We feature the country&rsquo;s best reporters, covering the news as it affects Australia. This is news with narrative, every weekday.

Mega data centres in bed with big gas: how fossil fuels are powering the AI boom

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