This week we hosted a community information night with the EDO presenting on what we do and don’t know about proposed Data Centres in the NT, and what we can do about it.
The scale of this industry is difficult to imagine, and its impacts on power and water usage are equally daunting. Many people feel that this industry has emerged without adequate consultation with Territory communities.
One thing that became clear from the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO) presentation is that this is a rapidly developing industry, and the regulatory framework is still being created. We heard loudly and clearly that people want a moratorium on Data Centres here until all due diligence has been done and we know what these developments will mean for our Northern Territory country, water, community and future.
We have an opportunity to share our views with the Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority (NT EPA) through the submission process for Project Ares, and the Federal Government through their Senate Committee inquiry into Artificial intelligence and data centres. There is also an opportunity to call for the Senate Inquiry to hold a public hearing in the NT.
This is how you can take action:
If you would like help to craft your submission - Submission Builder
The rules for assessing these proposals are being written right now. Until 20 August, you can tell the NT EPA what that assessment must examine. It only takes five minutes, and submissions can be made in your own words. Submission Builder
Project Ares Submission to the NT EPA – closes Thursday 20th August Project Ares Consultation
Submissions to the Senate Committee inquiry into Artificial intelligence and data centres – closes 1st September
Say No to Fracked Gas Data Centres Webinar – 24 August
Join ECNT and Lock the Gate campaigners to find out what all the data centre discussion is about and learn how to make your submission to the Senate Inquiry count. Register for the Webinar
We will keep updating this page as this is a rapidly developing issue as laws and regulations continue to be developed.
