'Hidden datacentre tax' costing Irish households millions, report says
A report claims that the growing datacentre industry in Ireland has significantly increased household electricity bills, costing families hundreds of euros. The report suggests that datacentres consumed 22% of the country's electricity last year, leading to a 'hidden datacentre tax' on consumers. Industry representatives dispute these findings, arguing that datacentres contribute positively to the economy and adhere to strict energy regulations.
- ▪Datacentres in Ireland used 22% of the country's electricity last year, more than all urban homes combined.
- ▪The report indicates that Irish households have subsidised big tech through a cumulative average increase of €360 in electricity bills from 2015 to 2023.
- ▪Industry representatives argue that datacentres have injected €18bn into the economy and comply with strict energy regulations.
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Datacentre industry representatives disputed the findings and said the sector boosted the economy. Photograph: Sergio Azenha/AlamyView image in fullscreenDatacentre industry representatives disputed the findings and said the sector boosted the economy. Photograph: Sergio Azenha/AlamyComputing‘Hidden datacentre tax’ costing Irish households millions, report saysDatacentres used 22% of country’s electricity last year, pushing up household bills, study suggestsRory Carroll Ireland correspondentThu 28 May 2026 09.01 EDTLast modified on Thu 28 May 2026 12.31 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleEnergy demand by datacentres in Ireland has added hundreds of euros to household electricity bills in a pattern that could be replicated across Europe, according to a report.Ireland’s growing number of…
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