Data centres will be required to meet at least 80% of their annual demand with additional renewable electricity projects generating in the Republic of Ireland. To ensure additionality, renewable generation which has previously been, or is currently, contracted through existing support mechanisms (e.g. REFIT, RESS, ORESS) cannot be used to meet this requirement. Data centre developers will be allowed a 6-year glide path for renewables to be developed and start generating. This acknowledges the timelines associated with developing renewable energy projects. Data centre developers will be required to present a credible plan to System Operators (EirGrid and ESB Networks) for the development of associated renewable projects.
This 6 year glide path means companies can build now and operate them, but not have the appropriate clean generation in place until 2032.