CEC welcomes new government data centre principles to deliver energy security and jobs for Australia

Responding to the release of the Federal Government’s ‘Expectations of data centres and AI infrastructure developers’, the Clean Energy Council welcomed the principles as a pathway for linking the digital economy with the construction sector and the regional development ambitions of our nation.

Clean Energy Council CEO, Jackie Trad, said that the abundant pipeline of clean energy projects and investment dollars were ready to match this new demand and support the needs of this critical sector.

“Clean energy projects employ thousands of workers and support hundreds of local businesses including local manufacturers and steel fabricators,” said Ms Trad.

“The large energy demands of data centres can help drive the wave of investment that delivers broader energy security across our country and real benefits to regional Australia,” she said.

Industry also welcomed the expectation that data centres would secure new energy generation to offset their demand, growing the amount of electricity generated to protect households from upwards pressure on energy prices.

“Australia’s electricity needs are only increasing as part of a modern digital economy. Growing our national energy generation capacity is critical to keep downward pressure on prices, as we cannot rely upon coal-power electricity from generators fast approaching their end-of-life, to supply our needs for the future,” Ms Trad said.

“We welcome commitments from the data centre sector, and the net zero commitments of their customers, to procure new clean energy and look forward to working with the sector to align projects and delivery timelines.

“Clean energy is fundamental to Australia’s economic prosperity, from supporting a thriving construction sector, powering our nation’s industries and supporting small businesses, to employing locals, and providing direct support to local councils and communities,” she said.

ENDS

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: 

Danielle Tricarico
Clean Energy Council General Manager - Media

Liam Straughan
Clean Energy Council Media Officer

+61 409 470 683