Local TD Says Expansion Of Data Centres Incompatible With Climate Action Plan

The State cannot roll out the red carpet for new data centres powered by fossil fuels if we want to hit our legally binding carbon reduction targets, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.

Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s energy spokesperson, said:
 
“The draft policy proposal just published by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is deeply worrying. Essentially it gives the green light for more data centres, which could potentially be powered by fossil fuel generation, such as oil and gas.
 
“This is in complete conflict with our responsibilities under the Climate Act, which commits Ireland to a 51 per cent reduction in emissions by 2030.
 
“We are already facing an uphill battle in that regard, with both the EPA and Climate Advisory Council warning Ireland is not on track to achieve these targets. This will leave us open to EU fines of up to €20 billion.
 
“It appears that the CRU is not operating in lockstep with the government when it comes to climate action policy.
 
“Data centres currently account for 21 per cent of energy use, and this figure is set to rise to 30 per cent by 2032 – and that’s just based on the centres we have now.
 
“If we grant permission for more data centres, we face not just an emissions crisis, but there will be additional pressure placed on our already fragile energy grid.
 
“The expansion of data centres is a runaway train that will cost us dearly in the future. We now need a statement from Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien explaining how the CRU’s data centre proposals are compatible with the government’s Climate Action Plan.”