Clear expectations for data centres and AI infrastructure

The Tasmanian Government has released its draft Expectations for Data Centres and AI Infrastructure.

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Felix Ellis, said our Government welcomes investment that creates jobs, builds new industries and delivers lasting benefits for Tasmania, but no project receives automatic approval or special treatment.

“These draft Expectations provide a clear framework to ensure our State remains at the forefront of innovation, harnessing Tasmania’s strengths while opening new frontiers in digital transformation," Minister Ellis said.

“They provide clear and predictable guidance to proponents, investors, industry, communities and other stakeholders, while supporting the responsible development of data centres and AI infrastructure that delivers enduring benefits for Tasmania.

“Our Government expects companies to maximise benefits for Tasmania, engage genuinely with communities, support our energy system, use water responsibly and comply with our approval processes.

“As a State, we are backing our major industries that employ Tasmanians today and embracing the industries that can employ them tomorrow. We can support both by growing energy supply alongside new demand.

“These Expectations ensure new projects pay their way and improve the resilience of our utility infrastructure.

“Our Government will continue to ensure that data centre and AI infrastructure developments in Tasmania are in the best interests of Tasmanians.”

Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said Tasmania is a national leader in renewable energy, and our green grid and growing pipeline of new energy generation projects offer a strong proposition for investors.

“These industries present real opportunities for Tasmania through jobs, investment and economic diversification, but they must also deliver community benefits,” Minister Duigan said.

“Data centres and AI infrastructure can be heavy power users and our government is focused on ensuring Tasmania has the right frameworks to support this growth in demand in a way that contributes positively to our energy system.

“This includes expecting new projects to support additional renewable energy generation, meet their share of network and connection costs, and operate in a way that protects energy security and grid stability.”

The draft Expectations are open for feedback until 12 October.

It is available here.