A feasibility study has been undertaken which concluded that the island could host such a centre, though initial response to the idea, when mooted, was sceptical in places.
The study indicated that a centre could generate a steady and substantial income through leases and royalties well ahead of the island’s current income through the local property tax and document duty, while associated energy infrastructure could help reduce household energy costs, support investment in community infrastructure, and create jobs.
‘The feasibility study opens by saying: “A data centre is feasible and economically transformational for Alderney”,’ said Policy & Finance chair Jeannie Cameron.
‘We therefore have a fiduciary duty to consider it and to move to the next step to see what interest there is from the private sector, and to consult with the public when any proposals are received.’
The report said that the global data centre sector was experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for cloud computing, digital services, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Policy & Finance has set a number of restrictions on the project, saying it must be in the island’s best interests and must not adversely impact the island’s environment, heritage, or community.
No site has been identified, and any potential developer would have to identify one, along with suitable energy solutions, cooling systems, and mitigation of potential impacts.
Any proposals received would be subject to external technical expertise and several scrutiny stages, including a full environmental impact assessment and several rounds of public consultation.
P&F said it accepted that islanders would have questions about the potential risks, impacts and benefits of such a project.
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