New Arklow Data Centres To Create 715 Jobs
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has praised two major Arklow data centre developments in County Wicklow as a leading example of sustainable digital infrastructure in Ireland. Speaking at the official launch of Echelon Data Centres’ DUB20 and DUB30 facilities in Arklow, the Taoiseach described them as “the model for future data centre development in Ireland.”
Located in a less grid-constrained region, the two centres are set to play a dual role in powering Ireland’s digital economy while also contributing to the country’s renewable energy ambitions.
“These facilities are strategically positioned to support the national grid, help decarbonise electricity production, and deliver regional economic benefits.”
The data centre projects are part of an estimated €3.5 billion investment by Echelon and are expected to create roughly 2,600 construction jobs and 715 permanent positions once operational. Beyond direct employment, the economic ripple effects are significant. A KPMG Economic Impact Assessment found that the construction phase alone could contribute up to €7.5 billion to the Irish economy, while the operational phase is projected to generate €801 million annually.
IDA Ireland’s CEO, Michael Lohan, also voiced strong support, emphasising the projects’ alignment with the agency’s sustainability strategy. “Echelon’s approach reflects a responsible and forward-thinking model. Their commitment to environmental sustainability and regional development is highly commendable,” Lohan said.
According to the economic report, Echelon’s investment will yield strong indirect benefits: every €1 invested could result in €1.60 of additional economic activity. Furthermore, for every 10 construction jobs, up to nine more roles could be supported elsewhere, and each operational job could lead to 1.6 additional jobs across the economy.
Echelon’s Chief Operations Officer, Graeme McWilliams, highlighted the strategic significance of the sites, saying they will “support nearly 1GW of wind energy investment,” reinforcing both grid resilience and Ireland’s energy security. He added that these developments exemplify how data centres can coexist with broader environmental goals.
DUB20 is being developed at the former Irish Fertiliser Industries site in the Avoca River Business Park, while DUB30 will be located just 5km away at Kish Business Park. Notably, DUB20 recently became the first large-scale data centre in Ireland to secure a grid connection from EirGrid in over four years — a milestone enabled by its compliance with updated regulatory standards.
Construction on the DUB20 facility is expected to commence later this year, followed by DUB30. Alongside traditional energy infrastructure, Echelon is also investing in solar power, battery storage, and renewable fuels, marking a shift toward low-carbon data solutions.
As Ireland continues to position itself as a global tech and data hub, these projects represent a step forward in balancing digital growth with environmental responsibility and regional development.
