Photograph: Getty Images/iStockPhotoNew data centres will only be able to connect to Ireland’s electricity grid if they also generate and supply power to homes and businesses, the regulator that oversees the energy industry has ruled. The highly anticipated decision follows the regulator’s review of the grid connection policy for large energy users, namely data centres. In February, the CRU published draft measures setting out new proposals to address increased electricity demand from new data centres. They are also now required to “develop and publish an engagement and connection process for data centre connection applicants”. “Their construction can double the cost of building a data centre,” said DII.

Source: The Irish Times December 12, 2025 16:19 UTC