Panel – Permitting Digital Infrastructure: securing approval in an era of growing scrutiny

The race to build the AI-ready infrastructure is accelerating, but securing permits and approvals remains one of the industry's greatest challenges. Research shows that half of planned data centre projects are delayed or cancelled, with 77% of those impacts occurring during the permitting and approvals process, often when concerns around energy, water, land use and local impact become barriers to development. Meeting growing demand for AI, cloud and digital infrastructure will require more than navigating regulatory requirements. Success increasingly depends on effective stakeholder engagement, strong relationships with local communities and policymakers, and a clear articulation of the value data centres bring to the regions they serve.

• Why are projects delayed and what’s delaying them?
• What needs to happen before the permit?
• How can developers balance rapid deployment with responsible deployment?

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