Iren targets 900MW Redbank data center campus near Wagga Wagga with 2029 grid connection

Iren has outlined plans for Redbank, a 900MW data center campus near Wagga Wagga in regional New South Wales, and is working toward a grid connection starting in 2029. The company says the project is in an early assessment phase. Data Center Dynamics reported the campus could see more than AU$10 billion (US$7bn) invested.

The proposed site sits west of the Gregadoo Waste Management Centre on land that hosts existing transmission infrastructure, according to a dedicated project website. Renderings suggest at least four buildings of varying sizes and an on-site substation. Iren would fund transmission costs and contract new renewable energy and storage to cover the campus's needs. The design includes a closed-loop cooling system to reduce water use. The company said Redbank "has the potential to create local jobs and economic stimulus as well as community benefits for the Wagga Wagga area."

Iren noted the Redbank project is not included in its previously announced 5GW secured-power portfolio. Iren is also targeting an 800MW campus at Bundey in South Australia, announced in June, with grid connection expected around 2028, earlier than Redbank's 2029 target.

Wagga Wagga, a Riverina city 455km southwest of Sydney, is drawing other developers. Leading Edge DC has a small facility in the city, and CDC has plans for a gigawatt-scale campus there.