Data Centres
Dail Éireann — 2026-09-17
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Darragh O'Brien (FF), Dublin Fingal East

I fully understand why the Deputy is raising the issue and it is important we debate it, but not every application is accepted. I do not just accept every application for connection that comes in. Applications for connection agreements are made and they can be accepted or refused. We have set out how new applications have to be processed in a plan-led way. It is not just first come, first served or that people just apply for a data centre and get it. PR6, the grid investment programme, outlines what we need to do to get ahead of the energy demand projections and it is a big programme.
In response to another Deputy's question earlier, I mentioned network charges, which are set by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, CRU. I do not set them. I know the Deputy did not say I do.
Regarding data centres, between 2020 and 2026, the network charges have increased by 175%. That is just to put the facts on the floor of the House. It has to be managed appropriately. I agree with the Deputy about that. That is what is being done and it is a big programme.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-09-17/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-09-28T05:50:48+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-09-17