Trinidad and Tobago's AI data centre plan sparks public debate

The Trinidad and Tobago government announced proposals for large‑scale artificial‑intelligence data centres, including a 300‑megawatt facility and a 150‑megawatt AI hub that could be expanded to 500 megawatts. Officials say the projects would diversify the economy, create skilled jobs and turn the twin‑island nation into a digital infrastructure hub for the Caribbean, leveraging its surplus electricity and natural‑gas resources.

A petition launched by conservationist Syam Nath has gathered more than 19,000 signatures calling for the projects to be suspended until detailed assessments of water, power and environmental impacts are provided. Business leaders such as the Greater San Fernando Chamber of Commerce acknowledge potential benefits but also urge a consultative approach. Prime Minister Kamla Persad‑Bissessar defended the plan, telling critics to “get off their ‘high horse’”.

U.S. President Donald Trump later praised data centres as “big, strong, bold, and money machines”, echoing a recent New York moratorium on new facilities due to environmental concerns.