Ireland’s Ongoing Data Centre Projects
Ireland has emerged as a leading European hub for the data centre industry, with significant investments and data centre projects underway across the country.
This rapid expansion is creating a wealth of opportunities for skilled professionals and driving economic growth. Let’s delve into some of the most prominent projects shaping Ireland’s technological landscape.
Vantage
Location: Grange Castle, Dublin
Vantage Data Centres is constructing a massive 405,000 sq ft (38,000 sqm) campus in Grange Castle, Dublin. The campus will initially house two data centres with a combined capacity of 52MW, with plans for further expansion. The project is a significant investment of €1 billion ($1.07bn) and is expected to create over 1,100 jobs during peak construction and 165 permanent roles.
Project Value and Economic Impact
The €1 billion investment in the Vantage Data Centres campus highlights the substantial economic impact of data centre development in Ireland. The project is expected to generate significant tax revenue for the government and contribute to the local economy through job creation and increased spending.
Project Timeline
The first phase of the campus is scheduled for completion by the end of 2023. However, Vantage is appealing a decision to refuse permission for a third data hall, which could potentially delay the overall project timeline.
Addressing Ireland’s Power Challenges
Vantage is taking proactive steps to address Ireland’s power grid constraints by installing an on-site 100MVA multi-fuel generation plant. This plant will reduce reliance on the grid and even feed power back into it, helping to alleviate pressure on the system. Additionally, the company is committed to using renewable energy sources and reducing water consumption.
Art Data Centres
Location: Ennis, Clare
Art Data Centres is developing a substantial 200MW data centre campus on a 145-acre site in Ennis, County Clare. The project will comprise six data halls, representing a significant investment of €1.2 billion. The campus is strategically located near Junction 13 on the M18 motorway, providing excellent connectivity.
Project Value and Economic Impact
The €1.2 billion investment in the Ennis data centre campus underscores the growing importance of regional data centre development in Ireland. The project is expected to create a significant economic impact on the region, with 400-450 permanent jobs and up to 1,200 jobs during the six-year construction phase.
Project Timeline
Construction is set to commence in 2024, with the entire campus expected to be operational within six years.
Overcoming Obstacles
The project faced significant opposition and delays, including a lengthy planning process and appeals from environmental groups. However, An Bord Pleanala ultimately granted permission, recognising the project’s alignment with the government’s data centre strategy and its minimal environmental impact.
AWS
Project Location: Bord na Móna Eco Energy Park, Offaly, Ireland
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has signed a strategic partnership with Bord na Móna to develop data centres at the Bord na Móna Eco Energy Park in County Offaly, Ireland. This collaboration marks AWS’s initial venture into the Eco Energy Park and signifies a commitment to sustainable data centre projects.
Project Value and Economic Impact
While specific financial details and project scope are limited, the partnership with Bord na Móna suggests a significant investment by AWS in Ireland. The project is expected to create jobs during the construction and operational phases, contributing to the local economy.
Renewable Energy Focus
A key aspect of this project is AWS’s commitment to sustainability. The 105MW power purchase agreement with Bord na Móna ensures that the data centres will be powered by renewable energy from the Derrinlough Wind Farm.
Location and Future Plans
The Offaly location is a strategic choice, providing access to renewable energy sources and supporting Ireland’s goal of becoming a data centre hub. AWS’s plans for additional renewable energy investments in Ireland underscore the company’s long-term commitment to the country.
Location: Grange Castle, Dublin
Google is planning to expand its existing data centre campus in Grange Castle, Dublin. This expansion will involve constructing a 72,400 sq m data storage facility, including data halls, offices, staff facilities, and other support services. The project also proposes a new active travel route to improve connectivity within the area.
Project Value and Economic Impact
While specific financial details are not available, Google’s past investments in Ireland (over €500 million) suggest a significant commitment to this project. The expansion is expected to create new jobs, contributing to the local economy.
Addressing Grid Connection Challenges
The project comes amidst concerns about Ireland’s power grid capacity and restrictions on new connections. However, Google’s existing presence at Grange Castle allows them to leverage their existing grid connection for this expansion.
Environmental Considerations
While environmental concerns surrounding data centres exist, Google’s previous data centre projects in Ireland have emphasised energy efficiency.
Microsoft
Location: Naas, Kildare
Microsoft is planning a data centre campus in Naas, County Kildare. The campus will comprise six two-story data centre buildings, each with a 24,755 sqm data hall. The project will also include a substation, gas turbines, battery energy storage systems, and solar panels.
Project Value and Economic Impact
While specific financial details are not available, the scale of the project suggests a significant investment by Microsoft. The data centre campus is expected to create numerous jobs during construction and operation, contributing to the local economy.
Addressing Energy Challenges
The project includes innovative features such as gas turbines, battery energy storage systems, and solar panels, demonstrating a commitment to energy efficiency and reducing reliance on the grid.
Staffing Data Centre Projects
Ireland’s burgeoning data centre landscape presents immense opportunities for both domestic and international investors. The rapid growth of this sector necessitates a skilled and adaptable workforce.
AA Euro Group specialises in providing comprehensive staffing solutions for data centre projects both in Ireland and across Europe.
Our expertise in sourcing and deploying talent, coupled with our deep understanding of the industry, enables us to deliver exceptional results for our clients.
By partnering with AA Euro Group, data centre operators can focus on their core competencies while we handle the complexities of workforce management.
Contact AA Euro Group today to discuss your data centre staffing needs and discover how we can be your trusted partner in delivering successful projects.
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