AirTrunk proposes Kurri data centre using gas peaker for energy firming

AirTrunk is planning a proposed data centre at the site of the former Kurri Aluminium smelter, which is expected to open in 2028. The company aims to use between 70 to 75 per cent clean energy at launch, with a goal to reach 90 to 100 per cent renewables by 2030.

To bridge the gap during the energy transition, AirTrunk is in discussions with Snowy Hydro regarding the potential use of a neighbouring $1.3 billion gas peaker plant. This plant is designed to provide on-demand energy during high demand periods using gas as its primary fuel and diesel as a backup. AirTrunk head of energy Sabooh Whitelaw noted that using the peaker as a firming product could help alleviate pressure on the grid during shortfalls in renewable generation.