Bowen says no special carve‑out for fossil fuel datacentre power

Australia’s federal government has clarified that its new national laws governing data‑centre power supply will not provide special exemptions for Queensland or the Northern Territory. Energy Minister Chris Bowen told Guardian Australia on Friday that any state wishing to rely on coal or gas for data‑centre electricity must demonstrate that such supply is cheaper than renewable options. This stance follows a cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, where the only concession reached was the allowance of existing fossil‑fuel infrastructure, contingent on cost‑competitiveness.

Bowen emphasized that the decision is part of a broader effort to standardise data‑centre energy sourcing across the country. He reiterated that the national regulator will review each application on a case‑by‑case basis, ensuring that the use of coal or gas does not undermine the country’s renewable‑energy targets. The minister’s comments come amid growing pressure from both industry and environmental groups to balance the demand for reliable, high‑capacity power with Australia’s commitments to reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions.