Data Centres Must Conform to Climate Limits, Says Irish Environment Minister Eamon Ryan

Tuesday, 17 September 2024, 04:00

Data centres must work within climate limits, according to Irish environment minister Eamon Ryan. The surge in energy-intensive systems is raising concerns over the environmental impact of data centres. As global electricity demand from these facilities is set to double by 2026, the call for sustainable energy solutions is more pressing than ever.
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Data Centres Must Conform to Climate Limits, Says Irish Environment Minister Eamon Ryan

Data Centres' Environmental Impact

Data centres, central to modern technology, are facing increased scrutiny regarding their sustainability practices. Eamon Ryan, Ireland's environment minister, has emphasized that these facilities need to operate within climate limits established to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy Demands on the Rise

With the global demand for electricity from data centres projected to double by 2026, the pressure is mounting on energy systems worldwide. In 2023, data centres in Ireland accounted for over a fifth of the nation’s electricity consumption, surpassing the power usage of all urban homes combined.

Challenges and Opportunities

  • Regulatory Measures: The Irish government has enacted restrictions on new data centre constructions in the Dublin area due to energy constraints.
  • Renewable Investments: Minister Ryan insists that data centre operators should invest in renewable energy and enhance their demand management capabilities.
  • International Cooperation: Ryan's discussions with UK counterparts could pave the way for better energy interconnectivity between the two regions.

The Future of Data Centres in Ireland

The looming energy policy report from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities is expected to define the framework for energy interconnections in Ireland, aligning with the climate goals set forth. Eamon Ryan remains hopeful about achieving a sustainable balance between technological advancements and environmental responsibilities.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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