Last mentioned: Mar 1, 2026
Consumption Projection
Data center power usage is projected to reach 9% of the total Australian national grid.
Public Backlash
Greens and local advocates raise concerns over 'energy vampires' and resource depletion.
Victoria Fast-Track Policy
Minister Pearson defends the 75-day approval timeline to compete with NSW for investment.
Victoria Policy Push
Minister Pearson defends 75-day fast-track approval for data center 'mega-factories'.
AEMO Market Report
AEMO identifies data centers as a major driver of future energy demand, projecting 9% usage by 2035.
AEMO Power Report
AEMO finds data centers consume 2% of national power, warning of future grid strain.
The Victorian government is fast-tracking AI data center approvals to compete with New South Wales, sparking intense debate over massive energy and water consumption. Critics warn that these 'energy vampires' could consume 9% of Australia's national power by 2035 while providing limited long-term employment benefits.
The Victorian government is accelerating data center approvals to a 75-day window to secure billions in investment and compete with New South Wales. However, critics warn that the massive energy and water requirements of these 'AI mega-factories' could destabilize the grid and strain local resources as consumption is projected to quadruple by 2035.
The Victorian government is implementing a 75-day fast-track approval process for data centers to secure billions in investment and compete with New South Wales. However, rising concerns over "energy vampires" highlight a growing tension between digital infrastructure expansion and the state's grid stability and water security.