Jeremy Rockliff, Premier
Felix Ellis, Minister for Innovation, Science, and the Digital Economy
Nick Duigan, Minister for Energy and Renewables
The Tasmanian Government has today released its Expectations for Data Centres and AI Infrastructure Proponents: Tasmania.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said our Government welcomes investment that creates jobs, builds new industries and delivers lasting benefits for Tasmania.
"As new industries emerge, we must ensure we protect Tasmanians while delivering economic benefits to our State," Premier Rockliff said.
"We have released our clear plan for data centres and AI infrastructure proponents, delivering safeguards for Tasmanians and certainty for investors.
"As part of our plan, proponents must enter into an agreement that sets out the requirements for their project.
"These agreements will outline the need for on island renewable energy generation, accountability, transparency and to maximise opportunities for local businesses.
"Proponents will be required to use water efficiently and minimise environmental impacts.
"And they'll need to be good neighbours, with an expectation that they will engage openly and constructively with communities from the outset.
"We know this sector is continuing to evolve at a rapid pace, so we will review the Expectations after six months and undertake further consultation with the community to ensure the framework remains fit for purpose."
Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy, Felix Ellis, said the Local Community Benefit Fund would ensure communities hosting major developments would should share directly in the benefits.
"Proponents of major data centres and AI infrastructure will be required to contribute a minimum $3,000 per MW of contracted firm demand per year towards a Local Community Benefit Fund," Minister Ellis said.
"These contributions will begin flowing to the local community once a centre becomes operational.
"Community groups and other eligible organisations will be able to apply for grants, and local representatives will ensure the fund reflects local needs."
Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said the expectations ensured Tasmania has the right framework to support this growth in energy demand in a way that contributes positively to our energy system.
"Tasmania has a significant opportunity to use data centre and AI infrastructure investment to accelerate the development of new renewable energy generation and storage in Tasmania," Minister Duigan said.
"We have a large pipeline of renewable energy generation projects that are well-placed to support load growth in this State.
"Under our Statement of Expectations, proponents will be required to partner with new renewable energy projects to support their electricity demand.
"Together, we are building an even better Tasmania, with investments in new industry supporting Tasmania's long-term energy capacity."
