The rapid growth of data centres in South Africa has outpaced legislation, with current regulations classifying data centres as warehouses, which can lead to inadequate oversight. GOOD National Youth Organiser Kaden Arguile argues that this classification is problematic, as warehouses are graded on their risk factor based on their contents, and data centres pose unique risks. The lack of effective regulation has raised concerns about the impact of data centres on communities and the environment.
The National Data and Cloud policy of 2024 commits to engagement with civil societies, but GOOD argues that this is not being enforced. The recent Equinix case in Cape Town is cited as an example, where the Housing Assembly had to work with legal groups to win an appeal to ensure that they understood the impact of the data centre. Communities are not being consulted about the development of data centres in their areas, which can have significant consequences for residents.
Data centres pose several risks, including fire, electricity, and water risks. The massive electrical requirements of hyperscale centres can strain local infrastructure, and the use of sprinkler systems to mitigate fire risks could damage electrical systems. The proximity of data centres to vulnerable communities, such as Langa and Gugulethu in Cape Town, raises concerns about the potential impact of a fire or other disaster.
The development of data centres also raises questions about the prioritization of infrastructure and resources. Will the massive amount of electricity required result in upgrades to the surrounding community's electricity infrastructure? How will water and electricity resources be allocated in the event of a breakdown? These questions need to be answered through updated legislation and community engagement.
GOOD is calling for public transparency and accountability from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT). The organization is requesting records of civil society engagements and public participation on data centre developments, as well as plans for public and civil society engagement. A legislation framework for public and civil society feedback on data centre parameters is also needed.
The lack of effective regulation and community engagement can erode trust in democratic institutions and leave the country vulnerable to exploitation. GOOD is committed to upgrading South Africa's technology capabilities, but not at the expense of environmental and quality of life concerns. The organization believes that a pre-emptive coming together between the DTIC, DCDT, stakeholders, civil societies, and the public is necessary to ensure that data centre development is safe and sustainable.
The call for updated legislation and community engagement is not a rejection of the potential benefits of data centres, but rather a recognition of the need for responsible development. GOOD believes that with proper regulation and oversight, data centres can be a positive force for economic growth and development, but not at the expense of communities and the environment. The organization is urging the government to take action to address these concerns and ensure that South Africa's data centre industry is developed in a responsible and sustainable way.
Key points
- The classification of data centres as warehouses is inadequate and does not reflect the unique risks and challenges posed by these facilities.
- The lack of effective regulation and community engagement can erode trust in democratic institutions and leave the country vulnerable to exploitation.
- Updated legislation and community engagement are necessary to ensure that data centre development is safe, sustainable, and responsible.
