Summary Report - Energy Strategy - Call for Evidence
Call for Evidence responses - 1 to 40
Response templateWorkshops
The department hosted five workshops addressing the main topics of Energy Consumers, Energy Efficiency, Heat, Power and Transport.
The events were at:
- Belfast - Energy consumers, 18 February
- Derry/Londonderry - Energy efficiency, 19 February
- Omagh - Transport, 26 February
- Ballymena - Power, 27 February
- Newry - Heat, 28 February
The presentations are available at: Energy Strategy workshops - presentations
Background
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.
The SEF facilitated a significant increase in low-carbon electricity, and the target of 40 per cent electricity from renewable sources has been exceeded ahead of the 2020 date. However, policy to achieve the 10 per cent renewable heat target was poorly-designed and the target was not achieved. This demonstrates the importance of robust, reliable and evidence-based policy-making going forward.
There are undoubtedly challenges ahead with formulating and delivering a new strategic direction for energy. It will only be achieved through collaboration across government departments, the energy sector and other key stakeholders.
The Department is grateful for the support to date from across government, the Utility Regulator, the Consumer Council, from across the energy sector and from those who represent the best interests of consumers, including vulnerable consumers.