Ireland moves to open grid access for private operators

Ireland is preparing to break the ESB monopoly by introducing legislation that will allow data centres and other large energy users to build and operate their own power lines. A new “private wires” policy, due next month, is expected to clear the way for private infrastructure connecting renewable generators directly to users, bypassing the national grid altogether in some cases.

This is a seismic shift for energy strategy in a country facing mounting grid constraints and rising pressure from global tech giants like Google and Amazon. The proposed reform is designed to attract private capital, accelerate grid alternatives, and free up network capacity for broader national use. Self-supply, hybrid connections, and the use of shared or public spaces for transmission lines are all on the table.

As energy-intensive industries like AI and hyperscale computing push for faster, greener access, the move signals Ireland’s willingness to rewrite the rulebook to stay competitive.

Read the full story for key implications across infrastructure, investment, and regulation.