Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment

My request relates to reports that data centres will be powered by offsite fossil fuel generation connected to data centres by private wires. I request access to any and all records held by your Department concerning this matter including but not limited to: 1. Correspondence, reports, briefings, or internal communications regarding the development, approval, or regulation of data centres being powered by offsite fossil fuel generation through private wire connections; 2. Any assessments, environmental impact evaluations, or policy discussions relating to the use of fossil fuel generation to supply data centres through private wires; 3. Records of engagement with private companies, energy providers, or data centre operators regarding such private wire connections, including meetings, minutes, or memos; 4. Any communications with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), EirGrid, or local authorities about this issue. For clarity, this request covers records created from 1 January 2025 to the present.