Exclusive-Australian outback data centre pulls timeline after regulator stalls

DARWIN/SYDNEY, Nov 2 (Reuters) - The developer of Australia's largest planned data centre has abandoned its target start date after a regulator extended the time needed to establish environmental parameters, hampering the nation's bid to become a fast-track location for AI investment. Energy North, a startup with finance secured for a vast gas and solar-powered data centre on a cattle ranch in the remote north, had previously set a first power date of June 28, 2028.

However, after the Northern Territory environment regulator ruled in October that it would not meet its seven-week deadline, Energy North's vice president of project development, Daniel Hunter, announced the timeline would no longer be followed. The June 2028 date was merely an indication at the time of application and is no longer being pursued, Hunter stated.

This setback highlights how data centre projects face obstacles even in the isolated north of Australia, which boasts abundant land and sunshine, as well as a major shale gas reserve for backup power. The regulator has requested advice from the federal government, which is developing policy expectations for data centres and AI infrastructure developers, and has not provided a revised timeline.

Despite the delay, Energy North remains committed to confirming its timing once the environmental impact statement, required for assessing potential adverse effects, is finalized.