Ireland reopens nuclear power debate as data centre demand strains electricity system

Ireland is reconsidering its nuclear power ban due to rapidly increasing electricity demand from data centres, which accounted for nearly 25% of national electricity in 2024 and are expected to grow to 30% by 2032 and possibly 55% by 2040. Government leaders and public opinion are shifting towards supporting nuclear energy as a potential solution to electricity supply constraints and high costs amid growing demand, though critics highlight that nuclear may not solve short-term energy challenges and could delay renewables.

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