Energy North drops June 2028 first-power target for Australian outback data center

The Northern Territory regulator suspended its seven-week deadline for determining what hurdles Project Ares must clear and said it would seek federal advice on data center policy. Energy North said its June 28, 2028, first-power date was indicative and it is no longer working to that schedule. The regulator warned of potential impacts on water systems and Aboriginal sacred sites. Energy North says it will confirm timing once terms for an environmental impact statement are set.