Data centre electricity demand could exceed power usage of entire country
Ireland’s planned data centre expansion could consume 5.8 gigawatts of electricity by 2040, matching the country’s peak demand of 6.02GW, while current usage already stands at 22% of total electricity. Experts warn the growth threatens climate goals, as new facilities may rely on only 80% renewable energy after six years, contradicting national policy and international agreements.
Ireland’s data centre expansion plans could see new facilities consume 5.8 gigawatts (GW) of electricity by 2040, equivalent to the Republic’s highest recorded peak demand of 6.02GW in January 2025. Currently, data centres already account for 22% of the country’s total electricity usage—the highest proportion globally—and projections suggest this will rise to over 30% within five years due to approved grid connections. A government-backed policy from December 2023 aims to support further growth but imposes minimal renewable energy requirements, demanding only 80% renewable sourcing after six years of operation. Hannah Daly, professor of sustainable energy at University College Cork, argues these rules will delay emission reductions and violate climate laws. Her working paper, presented to the Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence, highlights the mismatch between data centre expansion and national climate commitments. The committee will also hear from Jennie Stephens, professor of climate justice at Maynooth University, who warns of strains on electricity supply and renewable transitions. Meanwhile, Andrew Parnell, professor of data science for climate and weather at University College Dublin, will discuss AI’s potential to improve energy management and weather forecasting. The debate follows a United Nations report labeling Ireland a ‘cautionary tale’ for unchecked data centre growth amid rising AI demand. Committee vice-chairman James Geoghegan emphasized the need for a balanced discussion on both challenges and opportunities AI presents to Ireland’s energy and climate policies.
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