Real Estate
Home›Real Estate›Industry›Ireland’s new data centre power rules reopen stalled d…
Ireland’s new data centre power rules reopen stalled development pipeline
The revised Large Energy Users Connection Policy, released in late 2025, has restarted at least €5.6B in previously stalled projects, with applications totaling over 5.3 gigawatts of future capacity.
Ireland’s data centre market is restarting after years of limited new power connections, with revised guidelines aimed at reshaping how developers access grid capacity while protecting the electricity system. Bisnow reports that the policy reset began with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities revised Large Energy Users Connection Policy published in late 2025, ending an effective freeze and creating a pathway for new connections after a four year pause.
Within six months of implementation, the pipeline has reopened to at least €5.6B of previously stalled development. Developers are reported to hold applications representing more than 5.3 gigawatts of future capacity, far above Ireland’s current operational data centre market.
A key change is that new facilities must be effectively active in Ireland’s energy system, with operators required to support the network through on-site generation or storage. The rules also require that 80% of a facility’s annual electricity demand be supplied by additional renewable energy generated in Ireland within six years of operation, pushing investors toward integrated energy solutions.
Cushman & Wakefield EMEA Data Centres Chairman Andrew Fray said the shift moves the sector from a blanket pause to a more sophisticated framework, which he described as important for investor confidence. KPMG characterized the reforms as a policy reset rather than a reopening, and Bisnow noted Dublin remains Europe’s second-largest data centre market with around 1.15 gigawatts of operational capacity, behind only London.