World · 4 September 2026
Australia's AI data centre boom raises energy and water fears
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Australia is seeing a huge increase in AI data centres, with 162 already built and 90 more planned, attracting over £80 billion in investment. However, energy and environmental experts warn the country may struggle to meet the massive power and water demands these centres create. Data centre energy use could triple by 2030, potentially pushing power prices up 26% in New South Wales by 2035.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs