Data centre company Equinix has announced an investment of up to $700 million to support the construction of an advanced manufacturing facility by Hanley Energy.
The opening of the new plant, located in Dundalk, Co Louth, will lead to the creation of 200 jobs and will serve as a global hub for manufacturing specialised power equipment for data centres.
Hiring for the Hanley factory has already commenced for engineers and technicians, focused on precision engineering, quality assurance, and manufacturing.
Apprenticeship and training programmes will also be introduced.
The deal covers an initial 5-year period, extendable to 10 years, with a minimum of $70 million being invested by Equinix annually.
The facility will manufacture low-voltage switchgear, Power Distribution Units (PDUs), and Remote Power Panels (RPPs), all critical components for power distribution in data centres.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin welcomed the announcement.
"The creation of hundreds of skilled jobs and the introduction of world-class facilities in Dundalk is a major boost for the region and for our national economy," Mr Martin said.
Adaire Fox-Martin, CEO and President, Equinix, said the investment builds upon the company's longtime presence in Ireland.
"Our expansion in Dundalk further strengthens our ability to meet growing customer demand while creating local jobs and supporting the community," Ms Fox-Martin said.
John O'Driscoll, CEO, Hanley Energy, said partnering with Equinix highlights the strength of Irish engineering and innovation.
"Our advanced testing facilities and expertise will ensure that the equipment produced here meets the highest global standards, supporting data centers worldwide," Mr O'Driscoll said.
Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland, said the announcement demonstrates Ireland’s continued attractiveness as a location for digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and global technology partnerships.
