2 days ago
- Tasmanian Greens seek urgent parliamentary inquiry into AI data centres due to lack of specific regulations and public oversight.
- Proposed Firmus AI factories would draw 400-500 MW, exceeding Tasmania's largest power user, Bell Bay Aluminium.
- Tasmania's grid is tight, with net electricity imports from Victoria in 2024-25; spare power for data centres is not available.
- Data centres offer few permanent jobs (e.g., 150 jobs for 400-500 MW) compared to existing industries like Bell Bay Aluminium.
- Environmental claims for data centres are unverified, with reliance on fossil-fuel imports and unbuilt renewable generation.
- Data centres cause noise, vibration, and emissions issues for neighbours, and are linked to rising power bills.
- Ireland's experience shows data-centre demand can strain grids, forcing strict connection rules.
- Firmus deals are confidential, lacking transparency on incentives, tariffs, and economic benefits.
- The AI data centre plan contradicts Tasmania's brand of 'quiet pursuit of the extraordinary' and risks undermining local industries.
- Critics argue the plan is a bad deal, prioritizing foreign investors over local needs and requiring upfront demand without guaranteed supply.