CAPE TOWN, June 5 – Plans by U.S.-based data centre company Equinix to develop two large data centres in Cape Town are facing opposition from community groups and environmental advocates over concerns about the project’s potential impact on water, electricity and the environment.
The objections were submitted by the Housing Assembly, a social movement representing more than 20 communities in South Africa’s Western Cape, alongside UK non-profit organisation Foxglove.
According to the groups, the project should not move forward until more information is provided on issues such as water consumption, electricity demand, emissions, air pollution, noise levels and backup power systems. The proposed development could require up to 160 megawatts of electricity, making questions around energy use and environmental impact a major concern for stakeholders.
Water usage has also become a key issue due to Cape Town’s history of water shortages. The city experienced a severe drought between 2017 and 2018, widely known as the “Day Zero” crisis, when water reserves dropped to critically low levels.
Equinix confirmed that it has purchased land in Cape Town but stated that no planning applications have been submitted for the site so far.
The company said that if it decides to proceed with development, it will provide detailed information to relevant stakeholders and remain transparent throughout the process. Equinix also noted that it typically engages with local authorities, utilities and communities early in the planning stage.
The City of Cape Town said it is still reviewing the application and all comments received from interested parties before making any decision.
King David Golf Club and King Air Industria, owners of the proposed development site, have 30 days to respond to the objections. The city will then have up to 180 days to reach a decision.
The development comes as South Africa moves to attract more investment into digital infrastructure, including data centres, through new policy reforms and tax incentives.
