Why Firmus’ new sustainability pledge may not be so groundbreaking
The AI infrastructure company says its seven-point policy goes beyond government expectations. Industry says much of it is already common practice.
When Firmus co-founder Oliver Curtis popped up in the tiny rural town of Brinkworth, South Australia on Tuesday to announce not just a new energy supply contract, but a 17-page policy document setting out seven commitments and principles for responsible energy and water use, some may have been impressed by his trailblazing sustainability pledge.
But at least one key industry figure isn’t entirely convinced.
“We welcome operators being clear in what they are doing to support the energy transition, to pay their own way and design the most energy and water efficient facilities they can,” Data Centres Australia chief executive Belinda Dennett told Capital Brief.
“Whilst there are differences in business models which makes certain commitments more feasible for some, I think you’ll find most operators are doing a lot of these things already.”
Firmus co-founder Tim Rosenfield, who joined Curtis and SA Premier Peter Malinauskas for the announcement, was keen to set the company apart from the pack.
