Australia and around the world, a new debate is emerging over the construction of data centres. Why are they suddenly in such high demand, and does artificial intelligence have a role to play? Hear our in-depth conversation on this important topic with Usman Shaukat, a lecturer at Torrens University and cybersecurity researcher, in this podcast.
According to Usman Shaukat, data centres are large facilities containing powerful computers and servers that store our data and run various online services. The rapid growth of artificial intelligence has taken demand for these facilities to an entirely new level, as AI models require powerful computing resources, such as GPUs, to be trained and operated. He said that, according to the Australian Energy Market Operator, data centres currently account for around 2 per cent of the country’s grid supply, a figure that could rise to 6 per cent by 2030. Water consumption for cooling in water-stressed areas is also a genuine concern. However, he said the solution is not to stop building data centres, but to ensure they are located in suitable areas and use better technology and environmental controls, such as recycled water and cooling technologies that consume less water.
Usman also highlighted the cybersecurity risks, explaining that building data centres close to residential areas or sensitive national infrastructure could increase security risks. Recent incidents involving data centres being targeted amid conflicts in the Middle East have further highlighted these concerns. He said the key is to strike a balance: setting clear limits on energy and water use, considering environmental impacts when deciding where data centres should be located, and ensuring disaster recovery capabilities meet national standards, so that the benefits of AI development serve the interests of ordinary Australians.
