Northern Ireland Energy Strategy ‘Path to Net Zero Energy’
The context for energy has changed substantially since the 2010 Strategic Energy Framework (SEF) was published. In June 2019 the UK became the first major economy to commit to a 100 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This ‘net zero’ target represents a significant step-change in the commitment to addressing the climate crisis.
NI Climate Change Act
In June 2022 the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 obtained Royal Assent. The Act established that the Department for the Economy must ensure at least 80% electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2030 to supercede the 70% renewable electricity consumption target established in the Energy Strategy (2021).
Developing a new energy strategy
On 16 December 2021, the Department for the Economy published the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy - the Path to Net Zero Energy:
Call for evidence
The first step in the development of the Energy Strategy was a Call for Evidence, which closed on 3 April 2020. All documents relating to the Call for Evidence can be found at:
Energy Strategy options consultation
The consultation on policy options for the new Energy Strategy opened on 31 March 2021:
Energy in Northern Ireland - Innovation and Sustainability
Northern Ireland is a region of innovation, sustainability, and limitless potential. Learn how our innovative companies, advanced skills and academic-sector are paving the way in the global journey to net zero.
Energy Action Plan reports
- Energy Strategy Action Plan 2024 report
- Energy Strategy Action Plan 2023 report
- Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022 report
Energy Strategy e-bulletins
In June 2020, the department published the first in a regular series which will keep key stakeholders updated on progress with developing the new energy strategy:
Funding Innovation for net zero e-zine
The aim of the e-zine is to keep you informed of funding opportunities available in the clean tech and green innovation space.