Data centres and transmission network access in Queensland

Supporting Queensland's digital economy

Queensland is attracting increasing interest from data centre developers seeking connection to Powerlink’s network.  

Powerlink is committed to helping customers explore opportunities to connect while maintaining affordability, reliability and system security for all Queenslanders.

As Queensland’s transmission network service provider, Powerlink works with customers to understand connection requirements, identify potential connection pathways and provide information to support informed investment decisions. Early engagement can help customers understand network opportunities, constraints, timing considerations and potential costs.

Queensland's energy advantage

Queensland offers a distinct advantage for large-scale digital infrastructure through its state-owned energy assets, strong transmission network and diverse generation mix. This provides customers with opportunities to consider energy pathways that draw on existing generation, emerging generation projects, storage and firming resources as the energy market transitions.

• A coordinated, state-owned transmission network that supports strategic infrastructure planning.
• Access to a broad energy mix, including existing and new generation, storage and firming developments.
• Opportunities to align data centre investment with future energy infrastructure.
• Strong regional connectivity across key growth and industrial areas.
• Powerlink works closely with industry, government and market bodies to support investment decisions that balance speed to power, reliability, affordability and Queensland’s broader energy transition.

Supporting efficient pathways to power

For many data centre customers, speed-to-power is a critical factor in investment decisions, project viability and site selection. Powerlink recognises this imperative and is developing resources to help customers understand the transmission factors that can influence project delivery.

Choosing the right location matters

The most efficient data centre locations are typically those with:

• strong transmission network connectivity
• proximity to existing or prospective generation, storage and firming resources
• access to transmission substations and connection infrastructure
• available network capability
• opportunities for future expansion
• access to multiple transmission corridors.

Developments in areas with favourable network characteristics may benefit from more streamlined connection pathways and reduced augmentation requirements. Network capacity is dynamic and cannot be reserved until a project progresses through the formal connection process. Available capacity, project timing and connection outcomes are subject to technical, regulatory and commercial assessment and will depend on the broader development environment at the time of application.

Proximity to generation does not guarantee network capacity is available, or a connection will be feasible. Connection design, infrastructure requirements and delivery pathways will also depend on the customers reliability requirements and the feasibility of alternative or staged supply arrangements.

Supporting investment while protecting consumers

Powerlink supports responsible investment in new electricity demand and digital infrastructure.

Large electricity users, including data centres, are generally required to fund infrastructure necessary to support their connection in accordance with the National Electricity Rules. This helps ensure existing electricity customers are not required to bear the costs associated with new developments.  

Powerlink's approach seeks to:

• support economic development and investment in Queensland
• facilitate timely and efficient connections
• provide clear and transparent information to customers
• maintain network reliability and security
• ensure network investments remain prudent and efficient
• protect long-term value for electricity consumers.