Data centre companies to pay into new Tasmanian local community fund
Tasmania's Premier Jeremy Rockliff says he will expect any data centre company that sets up in Tasmania to pay into a new community fund. It comes as community concern grows around company Firmus Technologies and its plans for AI data centres in the state.
The Tasmanian government is creating a new community fund that artificial intelligence data centre companies operating in the state will be required to contribute to. The purpose of this fund is to support local infrastructure, skills development, community organisations, and initiatives that enhance the livability and economic participation of communities hosting these major developments.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff emphasized that Tasmania has the potential to become a national leader in responsible AI infrastructure, but the investments must yield tangible and enduring benefits for the local population.
Rockliff expressed his hope that the fund enforcement mechanism would be established promptly, drawing on examples from other jurisdictions, such as in the United States. He outlined that the fund would be applicable to all AI data centre projects, including those already approved. The fund's establishment is part of the government's broader approach to AI and data centres, following concerns raised during a parliamentary inquiry.
While the fund is separate from any existing partnerships with sporting organizations, Rockliff stressed that it would directly benefit the local community. Current discussions revolve around six additional data centre projects being considered for Tasmania. However, the identities of the proponents remain confidential for now. Many community members have expressed concerns about the energy and water consumption associated with data centre developments and questioned what tangible benefits they would receive in return.
A recent poll indicated that a majority of Tasmanians are not in favor of AI data centres being built in the state.
Firmus Technologies, one of the AI data centre companies interested in Tasmania, recently withdrew its planned initial public offering on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). The company has committed to constructing 2 megawatts of new renewable energy generation for every 1 megawatt consumed by its data centres in Tasmania.
Currently, Firmus is negotiating with Hydro Tasmania to secure 444 megawatts of power for its planned data centres in Launceston, Long Reach, and Wesley Vale, making it the largest power user in the state.
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.
