Technology Leadership
The Intel Leixlip campus is one of only a handful of locations on the planet to produce Intel’s leading process technologies. The Irish fab operations have consistently played a central role within Intel’s global manufacturing network. Intel Ireland has led numerous process technology startups since the early 1990s and was the location of the first 300mm wafer fab outside the US. Most recently, Fab 24 has been a key location for the production of Intel’s 14nm silicon microprocessors whilst also preparing to support Intel’s foundry customers.
Investing in Fab 34
In early 2019, construction activity began on Fab 34, a multi-year, two-fab module project. Intel has invested 17 billion euros in this new fab development, which doubles the manufacturing capacity available in Ireland, enabling the production of Intel 4 and Intel 3, the company’s most advanced process technologies and the first to incorporate EUV lithography.
An Innovation Hub
Over the past number of years, we have leveraged our advanced manufacturing capability and world-class infrastructure in Ireland to develop new competencies for Intel in the areas of research and design.
Today the Leixlip campus is home to the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) Group, originating from Intel's acquisition of the Irish start-up Movidius in 2016. The group specialises in developing industry-leading, low-power AI technology and software for Intel’s Client Computing Group. Intel’s dedicated low-power AI engine is designed for sustained AI performance and offloads, making it essential for Intel's leadership in the AI PC market. The NPU Ireland team collaborates closely with global design teams around the world, including Romania, Poland, and the US, to drive innovation in AI across Intel’s Client portfolio.
Economic Impact
The work that we undertake at the Leixlip campus is world class and unique in terms of its scale and complexity and has had a very significant impact on both the local and national economies in many ways. For example, in 2023, Intel contributed €3.73 billion to the Irish economy and was responsible for 0.7% of Ireland’s GDP. 19,464 full-time equivalent jobs have been created in addition to the 4,900 people working for Intel. We support 771 Irish suppliers with who we spend €284 million every year.