LATEST: Microsoft reveals plans for major data centre in Kildare with "large number" of jobs

Microsoft has confirmed it is at an early stage of developing plans for a data centre campus in Kildare. 

The proposed development is on a site at Jigginstown, Naas that has been specifically zoned for data centre use by Kildare County Council in the 2021-2027 Naas Local Area Plan.

Microsoft said it has commenced initial pre-planning consultation with relevant authorities which will help to inform the design process. 

The multi-national said "a large number of permanent jobs" will be created on the campus once it is fully operational.  

As the project plans develop, Microsoft said it will embark on an extensive engagement process with local residents, businesses and community groups.

 Early-stage proposals include greenway walking routes, cycle tracks and recreational amenities to be enjoyed by the local community with extensive landscaping and planting with native trees and plants.

A company statement said: "It is our ambition that this project will be designed and developed in line with the six guiding principles included in the ‘Principles for Sustainable Data Centre Development’ set out by Government in its 2022 policy statement on the role of data centres in Ireland’s enterprise strategy.

"It is Microsoft’s preferred solution to use 100% renewable energy as committed to in our recent announcement with Government to enter into multi-year Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) with energy companies to create new renewable energy contracts, which will see Microsoft contribute close to 30% of Ireland’s corporate power purchase agreement target by 2030. 

"If the scheme is approved, significant engineering, electrical, logistics, and construction jobs will be created for the duration of the development phase while a large number of permanent jobs will be created on the campus once it is fully operational.  

"The proposed development is part of the company’s strategy to unlock the opportunities of the digital economy and further strengthen Irelands’ technology sector.

"With the development of this data centre Microsoft wants to deepen the company’s roots in Kildare which builds on years of existing relationships including with Maynooth University, Connected Hubs in Kildare and the wider education community through our Microsoft Dream Space community and ETB partnerships. The selection of Naas will also help to build its reputation as a regional digital hub at the forefront of Ireland’s digital economy."