They are using about 10 per cent of the country's electricity output.
The Dáil will this morning debate a motion calling for a moratorium on new data centres.
They currently use about 10 per cent of the country's electricity output.
Maynooth University's Dr. Patrick Bresnihan told an Oireachtas Committee yesterday that this could rise to 70 per cent by 2030, if all planning permissions for new centres go ahead.
The Social Democrats is bringing forward today's motion - and its co-leader, Roisin Shortall, explains why
Govt needs to properly plan for data centre growth. @SocDems are calling for a moratorium on data centre permissions to allow that to happen. https://t.co/SXZmeN5Cp0
— Jennifer Whitmore TD (@WhitmoreJen) September 28, 2021
The Taoiseach has said every effort will be made to keep the lights on this winter in the face of strain on the power grid.
It comes as the Dáil has been debating a motion calling for a moratorium on new data centres in Ireland.
Our Political Correspondent Seán Defoe reports:
An Independent TD has said she's never been as frightened as she is over the Government's stance on data centres.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said he believes power demand this winter can be managed.
But Independent TD Catherine Connolly isn't as sure
:

Average Price Of Property In Kildare Now Second-Most Expensive Outside Of Dublin
Issue Of Illegal Encampments On Curragh Raised In Seanad
Leixlip Woman Who Donated Kidney To Son Speaks Ahead Of Donor Awareness Week
Dog Fouling and Litter Fines To Jump To €250 From September
Bertie Ahern's Comments On Immigration 'Not Reflective Of Those In Fianna Fáil', Says Taoiseach
Oireachtas Media Committee Won't Recommend Social Media Ban For Under 16s
Eurovision Song Contest Begins Tonight As Ireland And Other Countries Boycott
Some Chicken Products Recalled From Lidl Due To Salmonella Presence