Mr. Declan Hughes:

The questions that then arise are what are the gaps and why is the site not attractive. We will certainly be happy to engage with the Senator on the matter.

We know from all of our engagements through Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, as well as directly, that data centre owners and operators are very focused on the use and development of renewable energy sources. In some cases, they are investing significantly in renewable energy sources to improve their green credentials. It is also an important part of our own grid development and ensuring we have usage for electricity from renewable sources at off-peak times. There are other technologies that can be used. A mix of solar, battery and other technologies will optimise our grid.

IDA Ireland also works with clients seeking to support an increase in renewable and green activity. Its Go Green initiative includes data centres to enable them to improve their green credentials and investments. Many multinationals are at advanced stages of investing in energy efficient data management and optimising their own systems.

From an Enterprise Ireland perspective, a key focus of its involvement with large companies is energy investment and energy efficiency retrofitting in many cases, whether it is combined heat and power, CHP, or other forms of energy usage. That is what the market and consumers are demanding and we are very much behind that. If we can support that investment, particularly in major employers in the regions, that will improve their competitiveness and sustainability in the long term to sustain jobs in the regions, particularly in the food and drinks sector, a key employer in rural and regional locations.