Intel invests a further €5bn in Kildare

INTEL announced a €5 billion ($5.7 billion) capital investment at its Leixlip campus in Kildare on Monday, marking the next phase in the site’s capacity expansion.

Global demand for AI and high-performance computing is driving the need for advanced silicon to power AI Factories, and Intel is scaling capacity in Ireland to deliver Intel Xeon 6 and next gen Intel Xeon built on its Intel 3 node. This investment expands current production output, advances research and development activities and utilises capacity across existing cleanroom space, strengthening Europe’s semiconductor supply chain and serving industry need.

The expansion involves upgrading existing fabrication facilities and the installation of leading-edge manufacturing equipment. Key infrastructure enhancements include the expansion of the automated track system to integrate disparate campus modules into a singular, high-velocity production environment.

The execution of this €5 billion capital expenditure programme began earlier this year. This project is expected to engage specialised tradespeople across construction and equipment install, in addition to full-time high-tech jobs at Intel.

Naga Chandrasekaran, executive vice president, chief technology and operations officer and general manager of Intel Foundry said: “This €5 billion investment represents a definitive commitment to maximize capacity at our Leixlip campus and increase what we can deliver to Intel Foundry customers.

“By investing in our existing fabs with state-of-the-art technology and installing cutting-edge tools, we are not just increasing output of critical products like Xeon 6 and next gen Intel Xeon processors built on Intel 3, we are ensuring that Ireland remains at the forefront of the world’s most advanced manufacturing ecosystems, while strengthening the region’s role in the global technology landscape.” 

This commitment supports a key pillar to grow and strengthen Ireland’s semiconductor ecosystem, positioning Ireland as a leading European manufacturing hub. 

It further serves as a critical contribution to the European Union’s Tech-Sovereignty ambitions, facilitating a resilient, domestic supply of leading-edge processors.

Intel has invested more than €30 billion in Ireland since establishing operations in 1989, with the Leixlip campus serving as one of the company's most advanced manufacturing facilities. The site employs 4,900 people and has been at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, contributing significantly to Ireland's reputation as a global technology hub.

 An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin T.D. said: “Intel’s latest multi-billion-euro investment in Leixlip is a powerful vote of confidence in Ireland, our skills base and our position at the heart of Europe’s most advanced manufacturing ecosystem” 

IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said: “Intel is one of Ireland’s longest standing and most strategically important investors. This project demonstrates the value of Ireland’s skilled workforce, innovation ecosystem and stable business environment, while reinforcing Ireland's leadership in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, supporting both European competitiveness and resilient global supply chains.”