Vast data centre now under construction in Silvertown
A vast data centre is now starting to rise at a site in Silvertown.
The development sits beside the Thames not too far from the Cable Car and pretty close to West Silvertown DLR station, replacing plans for a distribution depot. With the change of plans it’ll now be used for digital distribution rather than physical goods.
A large number of data centres are proposed and not without controversy. Many are for AI and require massive amounts of energy to operate. In addition they require vast amounts of water to cool systems.
Housing impact
Earlier this month UK government proposals to place data centers ahead of new housing in the queue for electricity supply led to warnings of more delays in housebuilding.
The AI goldrush has also led to a shortgae of certain electronic and computer components. Anyone who has tried to puchase certain items recently would have seen the sky high increase in cost. This is impacting consumer electronics, with Sony recently announcing a £90 increase in the price of a Playstation 5 in part due to the rising cost of RAM memory.
Phone and laptop manufacturers have stated cost increases are on the way.
It’s claimed heat from the centres wll be used for a local heating network serving local houses. It sounds good on paper but it remains to be seen how it functions. Many local heating networks have been criticised for vast bills.
Ada Infrastructure are behind the Silvertown site. The block – bt its very nature as a data centre – will present a mostly blank facade towards the Thames. There’s claims some blocks in future phases may rise as high as 20 storeys.
A pocket park is set to be created as part of the project.
Approved in 2024, Jennifer Weitzel, President of Ada Infrastructure, said at the time: “This new data center development embodies our commitment to driving positive change through the use of sustainable technology and materials, a robust environmental, health and safety program, and an ongoing investment in the communities in which we work and live.
“In addition to collaborating with local partners to provide job training and employment opportunities, the project’s future-ready design, including energy-efficient systems, net positive landscaping, and strict physical and cybersecurity protocols, will set new standards for safe and sustainable development in the age of AI.”
I appreciate there is a need for AI in certain areas like medicine for example to improve knowledge and technology To help come up with bettet diagnosis and treatments for medical conditions etc.
But we must not allow AI to replace jobs which people need to make a living for themselves.
Not everyone will be able to work AI and Technology services. Or want to travel in driverless cars buses ot taxi”s.
If the Government ate prioritising engery for data centres over new homes which will slow down the building of new homes. Then it shows again that the Labour Government not serious about tackling the housing crisis and homelessness..
Data centres use a LOT of electricity and water. Where are the operators getting the required resources? In addition, residents in America living near data centres that have been allowed to be built in their suburban neighbourhood, complain of an unpleasant background thrum that never stops.