Data centres and electrification: enablers, competitors ...or both?

When: Tuesday, 21 April 2026, 16:15 - 17:15
Where: N105

Session description

Data centres are expanding rapidly, reshaping electricity demand and challenging Europe’s electrification timeline. This session explores whether their growing power needs accelerate investment in clean energy or constrain the electrification of transport, industry and buildings. Speakers will examine grid impacts, system integration, efficiency innovations and policy choices shaping this balance. The discussion will clarify how Europe can meet digitalisation needs while staying on track with broader electrification goals.

Panel

Kerry Person

Vice President, AWS Global Operations and Data Center Delivery, AWS

Fintan Slye

CEO, NESO

Cathal Marley

CEO, EirGrid

Mechthild Wörsdörfer

Deputy Director-General for Energy, European Commission