Why the world's biggest AI companies want data centres in the NT
Artificial intelligence companies are exploring the Northern Territory in Australia as a potential site for massive data centres. The region's abundant solar energy and natural gas reserves are cited as key factors for meeting the high power demands of AI infrastructure.
Why it matters
The energy-intensive nature of AI development is driving a search for new, sustainable, and reliable power sources in remote locations.
A massive data centre dubbed Project Ares (seen here in concept form) is being planned for the Northern Territory's remote Barkly region. ( Supplied: Energy North )
Link copied Share Share article From the tropics of the Top End to the red dirt of Central Australia, the Northern Territory seems a world away from the rapid development associated with artificial intelligence.
But the NT could soon be at the centre of one of the world's most controversial industries, with 12 data centre investors eyeing Australia's most remote jurisdiction.
Why have these companies chosen the NT and is it ready for an AI boom?
Jason Finlay, a partner with Vantage North Group, says the NT's sunny skies and vast reserves of natural gas are part of the attraction for AI firms.
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