NSW rolls out fast-track approval for data centres that meet new sustainability rules
The New South Wales government will review data-centre proposals within 75 days if developers adhere to recently introduced environmental and community guidelines.
New South Wales has introduced a policy that offers data-centre developers a rapid 75-day application review if they comply with a set of fresh environmental and community standards. The requirements include renewable-energy purchase agreements, water-efficiency targets, contributions to local infrastructure, and investment in skills training and future-industry initiatives. Treasurer Daniel Mookhey emphasized that developers, not taxpayers, will bear the cost of new clean-energy supply, aiming to replace aging coal-fire power.
While the government claims the rules will address community concerns, protestors such as Gokulan Gopal and Sophie Shanaaz in Western Sydney have called for a moratorium until impacts on power prices and water resources are clarified. The framework also mandates a water-pricing review and Regulatory Tribunal and the creation of an Office of AI to oversee digital investments. The measures take effect on Monday, though the IPART review and Office of AI may roll out later.
Why it matters
The plan ties data-centre growth to renewable energy and local infrastructure, affecting costs and resources for NSW residents.
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