A report by KPMG has called for investment in data centres in North Kerry, as part of efforts to put the south west at the centre of Ireland’s energy transition.
It’s one of a number of actions supported by KPMG to develop the southwest’s potential leading towards 2040.
The report describes Cork and Kerry together as Irelands’ second economic engine.
‘Southwest 2040: Advancing Ireland’s Economic Future’ says the central challenge of the next 15 years is closing the gap between the ambition in the region, and the enabling infrastructure, investment, and policy frameworks.
It says the designation of offshore and onshore wind as critical infrastructure requires immediate national focus, recognising the south west’s unique role in delivering Ireland’s energy transition.
It also calls for the south west to be positioned as Ireland’s data centre and clean energy hub.
It says investments in the N22 Farranfore to Killarney road, and Tralee Northern Relief Road, are among the critical structural decisions that will determine whether the region grows sustainably or not.
The report highlights Kerry as one of the country’s most important locations for renewable energy generation, and says the south west is well-placed to lead Ireland’s renewable energy expansion, and action must be taken to deliver this vision.
Among the measures KPMG calls for in the energy sector, are delivering grid enhancement to expand wind and solar generation, including attracting data centre investment to North Kerry.
It also calls for the delivery of port infrastructure investment, and developing skills programmes through the MTU.
KPMG says the remaining offshore wind sites off the south coast should be auctioned to grow Ireland’s offshore renewable energy industry.
The report highlights challenges for the region in responding effectively to climate change, and calls for interventions such as advancing coastal flood schemes, and shifting tourism demand away from peak summer months to protect coastal and cultural assets.
It also calls for the development of an AI and cyber-ready workforce, and a regional cluster of expertise to develop AI and digital opportunities for the southwest.
