Equinix Invests Up to $700 Million in Irish Manufacturing Facility, Creating 200 Jobs

Data centre operator Equinix is investing up to $700 million (€594 million) in Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland, to construct a 150,000 sq. Ft. Advanced manufacturing facility. The project, undertaken in partnership with Hanley Energy, is expected to create 200 jobs.

Investment Details and Facility Scope

The investment will support the construction of a facility dedicated to manufacturing specialized power equipment for data centres and AI-driven workloads. Equinix has committed to a minimum investment of $70 million annually for an initial five-year period, with the possibility of extending this to ten years [IDA Ireland]. The facility will produce low-voltage switchgear, Power Distribution Units (PDUs), and Remote Power Panels (RPPs), all essential components for data centre power distribution [Irish Times].

Hanley Energy and Jabil Partnership

The manufacturing facility will be built by Hanley Energy, which was recently acquired by Jabil, an American multinational manufacturing company [Engineers Ireland]. Hiring has already begun, focusing on engineers and technicians specializing in precision engineering, quality assurance, and lean manufacturing. Apprenticeship and training programs will likewise be implemented.

Government and Industry Response

Taoiseach Micheál Martin welcomed the announcement, stating that the creation of skilled jobs and the introduction of world-class facilities represent a significant boost for the region and the Irish economy [RTÉ]. Adaire Fox-Martin, CEO and President of Equinix, emphasized the company’s long-term commitment to Ireland and the expansion’s role in meeting growing customer demand. John O’Driscoll, CEO of Hanley Energy, highlighted the partnership as a testament to Irish engineering and innovation.

Expected Benefits and Efficiency Gains

Equinix anticipates achieving 10-15% faster lead times with the modern facility compared to traditional procurement methods [Irish Times]. The facility will also feature a temperature-controlled testing laboratory, the only one of its kind in Ireland or the UK.