Data centres fast-tracked under new government initiative
The scheme is incentivising builders constructing data centres in NSW to comply with newly set guidelines.
The New South Wales government has launched an initiative to fast-track data centre applications by assessing them within 75 days if builders meet new environmental and efficiency standards. Treasurer Daniel Mookhey announced that data centre builders would be responsible for covering the costs of new clean energy, sparing taxpayers from the burden.
The government's move aims to replace old energy sources like coal-fired power with renewable energy and invest in water infrastructure. While builders who fail to meet the standards could have their proposals rejected, those that comply will not impose any additional costs on consumers. The framework has been criticized by community groups concerned about the impact of data centres on local infrastructure, water, and power resources.
A protest was held in Western Sydney, with organizers raising questions about the sustainability of data centre expansion. The government acknowledges community concerns and believes the new regulations will address them, emphasizing the importance of renewable energy and water usage efficiency.
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