EdgeConneX Ireland has recently lodged an appeal with An Bord Pleanála against the rejection of its data center proposal by the South Dublin County Council. The company sought to develop two adjoining data centers on its Dublin Campus located in the town of Ballmakaily in Lucan, Dublin. Despite facing opposition from the council, EdgeConneX maintains that its proposal is viable and aligns with their development plan.
Basis for Rejection by South Dublin County Council
The rejection by South Dublin County Council stemmed predominantly from two reasons. Firstly, the council highlighted concerns regarding insufficient capacity in the grid, which could potentially hinder the operation of the proposed data centers. Additionally, it was pointed out that EdgeConneX did not have a fixed connection agreement in place, further raising doubts about the feasibility of the project.
EdgeConneX’s Argument in the Appeal
In its appeal, EdgeConneX contends that the council has adopted an “unduly rigid approach” to their development plan and that their proposal has been misinterpreted. The company emphasizes that it already has an existing connection agreement with EirGrid, thereby contradicting the council’s claim of a lack of a fixed connection agreement. Furthermore, EdgeConneX firmly denies the existence of any capacity issues, asserting that it has taken appropriate measures to ensure the project’s smooth operation.
Power Source for the Data Center
One crucial aspect that EdgeConneX has outlined in its appeal is its plan to power the data center through a gas-powered generation plant in the short to medium term. While acknowledging the concerns around the grid’s capacity, the company aims to mitigate such issues by relying on an alternative energy source. Additionally, EdgeConneX emphasizes its commitment to transitioning to renewable energy when it becomes readily available, highlighting the data center’s flexibility and potential to benefit the stability of the grid.
Previous Approval for Building Expansion and Power Generation
It is worth noting that EdgeConneX had secured approval for two new buildings at the same Dublin Campus in the previous year. The company’s plans also included the installation of three gas-powered generation plants and 32 standby generators. This prior approval indicates that EdgeConneX’s proposed data center development aligns with the local planning regulations, making their current appeal all the more significant.
EirGrid’s Moratorium on New Data Centers
The challenges faced by EdgeConneX are not unique, as Ireland’s state-owned electric power transmission operator, EirGrid, imposed a de facto moratorium on new data centers in Dublin until 2028. This decision, implemented in January 2022, has adversely impacted the development of data centers in the region, making EdgeConneX’s appeal even more critical in light of the broader industry context.
Appeal by Vantage Data Centers
Adding to the ongoing debate surrounding data center development in Dublin, Vantage Data Centers has also filed an appeal against a rejected data center proposal. Their appeal was lodged in July, and a decision is expected in October 2023. The outcome of Vantage Data Centers’ appeal could potentially have significant implications for the future of data center development in the region.
EdgeConneX’s appeal against the rejection of its data center proposal demonstrates the company’s determination to proceed with its plans on the Dublin Campus. Challenging the council’s concerns over grid capacity and the lack of a fixed connection agreement, EdgeConneX seeks to prove the viability of the project. Moreover, the company’s commitment to employing a gas-powered generation plant and transitioning to renewable energy showcases their dedication to sustainable practices. As the outcome of EdgeConneX’s appeal and Vantage Data Centers’ appeal approaches, the decisions made will undoubtedly impact the future landscape of data center development in Dublin.