Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 September 2026
54. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he has read a report (details supplied); and to outline his plans to deal with the increased costs of electricity for households as a result of data centre usage. [65815/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of a report commissioned by Friends of the Earth regarding potential impacts of data centres on the electricity system and consumers. It highlights the importance of:
- accelerating renewable electricity transition;
- reducing reliance on gas-fired generation; and
- strengthening energy security.
Data centres, like all large energy users, must operate within the boundaries of Ireland’s climate legislation, carbon budgets and energy security requirements. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities’ Large Energy User Connections Policy and the Government’s Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP) establish a framework for new large energy users while protecting security of supply and supporting Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions. A key objective of LEAP is to ensure that electricity customers, including households, are not exposed to costs associated with infrastructure developed specifically for large energy users.
The Government is focused on ensuring energy remains affordable for households. A €500 million package of fuel supports was agreed in addition to the initial €250 million in targeted supports announced in March, already among the largest (per capita) intervention of any EU Member State. Further protections are in place for customers facing difficulties with bills, including through the Additional Needs Payment.
In June 2025, the cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) was established to develop a coordinated, long-term approach to energy affordability. NEAT is currently finalising an Energy Affordability Action Plan setting out measures to address energy affordability over the short, medium and long term. This work complements the Government’s ongoing investment in renewable energy, electricity networks and home energy upgrades, to deliver reductions in household energy costs.
