Northern Ireland Risks Missing Energy Targets, Committee Warns
A Stormont committee has cautioned that delays and policy uncertainty threaten economic opportunities associated with the region's net zero strategy.
Northern Ireland is at risk of failing to meet its crucial 2030 energy targets, potentially forfeiting significant economic benefits, a Stormont committee has warned. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) released a report following an inquiry into the Department for the Economy's (DfE) implementation of its net zero strategy, highlighting concerns that accelerated action is needed.
According to the PAC, uncertainty surrounding future policies and delivery timelines is deterring investment. Business and energy sector representatives have indicated that potential investors are considering Great Britain, Ireland, and other European markets due to perceived greater certainty there. Committee chair Daniel McCrossan stated that the government has a "responsibility to create the conditions needed for investment to proceed, otherwise there is a real risk it will go elsewhere."
The 2021 energy strategy set out a plan for Northern Ireland to achieve full decarbonization by 2050 and ensure that at least 80% of electricity consumption is sourced from renewables. McCrossan emphasized that while the strategy presents a substantial economic opportunity, "growing frustration among businesses and investors over delays, policy uncertainty and a lack of clarity around delivery" has been evident.
The PAC report makes 11 recommendations, including the regular publication and updating of the department's Energy Policy Statement. It also calls for funded plans to address constraints in grid, infrastructure, and energy storage. Committee members expressed concern that nearly £124 million of public money has been spent on energy-related programs since 2020, and they require assurances that Northern Ireland is on track to meet its objectives.
The committee noted the department's confidence in achieving the strategy's goal of fostering a £2 billion green economy. However, members stressed the importance of translating this ambition into tangible results to secure the promised investment, jobs, and broader benefits of the net zero transition.
