Tungkillo residents raise noise and light concerns over data centre plan
Quantum DC plans a 1,200-megawatt hub east of Adelaide, but the state government says it has not received a formal development application.
By Quang Dinh
A proposed 1,200-megawatt data centre and energy precinct at Tungkillo, about 55 kilometres east of Adelaide, has drawn opposition from residents concerned about noise, lighting and the area's landscape.
Melbourne-based Quantum DC wants to build the Tungkillo Compute and Energy Hub on 220 hectares. The company plans two community drop-in sessions before seeking formal development approval.
Tungkillo lies within the internationally accredited River Murray Dark Sky Reserve. However, Quantum DC said the proposed site was more than 5 kilometres beyond the reserve's boundary. It said nearby energy infrastructure and renewable projects under construction influenced its choice of location.
Resident Magdalene Lippett said locals wanted to protect the area's clear night skies. She also raised concerns that noise would carry across the hills, reach homes and disturb animals.
Mid Murray Council Mayor Simone Bailey said she had reservations about the location but would wait for a community session before taking an official position.
The state government said it had received neither a formal application nor documentation for the proposal. It said planning processes would require the developer to demonstrate how energy, cooling, water and surrounding impacts would be managed.
Quantum DC chief executive Alby Tomassi said specialist assessments were underway covering traffic, noise, lighting, air quality, water, wildlife, Aboriginal heritage and bushfire. He said the findings would shape the final design and become public alongside the application.
