Firmus Technologies was quizzed on everything from energy use, community benefits, e-waste and the contentious topic of hundreds of back up diesel generators slated for their Bell Bay project, when they fronted the Parliamentary inquiry into AI data centers in Tasmania this week.
An appeal by the developers is currently before TASCAT, pushing back on a condition imposed by George Town Council which limits the use of 276 diesel generators to emergency scenarios only.
CEO Tim Rosenfield and energy manager Paul Grzinic telling the hearing that the generator’s would only be used as a back-up and that it would not be ‘commercially convenient’ to run a data center with diesel.
The response seemingly at odds with the appeal before the state’s tribunal, with the Firmus reps remaining tight lipped on the matter.
Firmus’ submission includes a study commissioned by the company which shows the projected contribution to gross state product, from their Tasmanian branch, through to 2035 would be in the realms of 46 billion.
The hearings continue, as various stake holders weigh in on the industries presence and possibilities in Tasmania, with the committee to make recommendations to the Government at its conclusion.
