Albanese to override Queensland to settle AI data centre energy rules
Queensland's rejection of rules tying data centre construction to new renewables projects means the federal government will be forced to legislate to override the state.
The federal government plans to finalize new energy and water rules for massive AI data centres in Australia during a national cabinet meeting on Wednesday, despite Queensland's opposition. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has vowed to maintain his stance against rules that would require data centre projects to purchase power exclusively from new renewable energy sources.
The government expects to pass legislation to override the state's opposition to these rules, ensuring data centre investments do not adversely impact power prices and reliability. Queensland and the Northern Territory governments refuse to endorse a standard linking data centres to renewable projects exclusively. Energy Minister Chris Bowen has hinted at the federal government's intention to legislate "causer pays" energy rules next year for large facilities, allowing the Commonwealth to overrule any dissenting states.
Queensland's stance emphasizes the need for an open approach to data centre investments while ensuring they benefit the Australian community.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
