Ireland supplies approximately 20 per cent of Western Europe’s electronics’ output and has developed a leading position in semi-conductor components and ICT equipment.
International electronics companies such as Intel, Analog Devices, Dell, IBM, HP and Cisco have located major manufacturing, R&D and Fab facilities in Ireland.
This concentration of high technology multinationals, coupled with significant investment in R&D by the Irish government, has facilitated the development of a strong group of innovative indigenous companies in the electronics sector.
Investment in micro and nanotechnology research has resulted in the establishment of world-leading centres of excellence with up to 1,000 researchers working in the areas of microelectronics, sensors, ambient technologies, nanoelectronics and photonics.
In addition, Enterprise Ireland has led the establishment of networks of Irish indigenous companies, multinationals and academic research groups in areas such as IC design, instrumentation for lifesciences, power electronics, wireless sensor networks and photonics.
Key sector characteristics
- Ireland supplies 20 per cent of European electronic production primarily in semi-conductor components and data processing equipment.
- The sector in Ireland is characterised by state-supported industry clusters working with research centres on the development of next generation technologies.
- Investment in start-up electronics companies, primarily in Fabless IC design has reached an annual total of over €100m.
- The indigenous sector is dominated by exporters providing leading-edge technology products to global niche markets.
Growth Areas
Enterprise Ireland has identified the following areas as presenting growth opportunities over the next five years.
- Microelectronic design especially analog IC design
- Semi-conductor processing equipment
- Industrial control equipment
- Building management systems including lighting, low voltage switchgear and access contro