The CRU has today, 23 November 2021, published the “CRU Direction to the System Operators related to Data Centre grid connection processing” decision (CRU/21/124) This decision details how the CRU is issuing direction letters to the System Operators (SOs), EirGrid and ESBN, directing them to implement a set of assessment criteria by which the SOs will process data centre grid connection applications. The assessment criteria will have immediate effect, upon issuance of the direction letters to the SOs. The CRU has decided not to impose a moratorium on data centre connections at this time. However, the CRU reserves the right to impose a moratorium on data centre connections in future if it deems necessary to do so, to protect security of supply. The CRU has decided to continue with option 3 “Connection Measures”, considering this to be the most balanced and necessary approach. This mitigation option should allow the data centre industry to continue to connect in a manner which respects the overall system integrity while balancing the needs of the consumer to have a secure and stable supply of electricity. Non-confidential responses to the “CRU proposed Direction to the System Operators related to Data Centre grid connection” (CRU/21/060) are published alongside the Decision. For further information, please contact electricityconnectionpolicy@cru.ie