{
  "id": 6369752,
  "title": "Six new AI data centre projects for Tasmania, but who from is being kept secret",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/six-new-ai-data-centre-projects-for-tasmania-but-who-from-is-being",
  "topic": "ai",
  "section": "AI",
  "published": "2026-09-09T02:27:12.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-09/six-new-confidential-data-centre-proposals-tasmania-revealed/107131974"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Six undisclosed companies are exploring six new AI data centre projects in Tasmania, according to a document presented in parliament. The power-hungry facilities, which would collectively consume at least 500 megawatts of energy, are set to be built in addition to the three AI data centres already owned by Firmus Technologies. Among the projects, two are in the feasibility stage, meaning a preferred site has been chosen and further assessments are underway to determine overall viability. The largest of these projects, proposed for Tasmania's north-west, is also expected to consume 200-300 megawatts of power. Another project in the concept stage, despite not having a preferred site yet, would also require 200-300 megawatts of energy. One of the four projects in the concept stage had shown interest in the closed manganese smelter in northern Tasmania, Liberty Bell Bay. If all six projects come to fruition, they would significantly contribute to Tasmania's energy consumption. This initiative is part of the state government's ongoing effort to attract investment, alongside the three existing Firmus Technologies facilities, which together require 444 megawatts.",
  "summary": "Six unnamed companies are looking at setting up data centres in Tasmania, a parliamentary document reveals.",
  "key_points": [
    "Six undisclosed companies exploring AI data centre projects in Tasmania.",
    "Projects collectively consuming at least 500 megawatts of energy.",
    "Two projects in feasibility stage, largest requiring 200-300 megawatts."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The surge in proposed AI data centre projects in Tasmania, if realised, would significantly boost energy consumption and investment in the state, while further entrenching the role of data centres in its economy.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}