DfE announces next step in plan to reach target of net zero emissions

The Department for the Economy today launched a Call for Evidence to inform the development of a new Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland.

DfE announces next step in plan to reach target of net zero emissions

In June 2019, the UK became the first major economy in the world to pass laws to end its contribution to global warming by 2050. The ‘net zero’ emissions target will require the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. A reduction in energy-related emissions is a significant part of this.

The publication of this Call for Evidence is part of an on-going public engagement process designed to inform and shape proposals which will be presented to a future Minister for the Economy.

Mike Brennan, Permanent Secretary at the Department for the Economy, said: “The context for energy has changed substantially since the 2010 Strategic Energy Framework (SEF) was published. Earlier this year, the UK became the first major economy to commit to a 100% reduction in Greenhouse Gas emissions by 2050. Any new strategic direction for energy in Northern Ireland must take account of emissions from energy used for heat, power and transport.

“There are undoubtedly challenges ahead with formulating and delivering a new strategic direction for energy. It will only be achieved through widespread collaboration across government, energy industry representatives and wider society.”

The Call for Evidence will run until 20 March 2020. The Department will be continuing to engage with key stakeholders during this period. 

Notes to editors: 

1. The Call for Evidence is available online on the Consultations page of the DfE website

2. The closing date for responses to the Call for Evidence is 20 March 2020. 

3. Responses should be forwarded to energystrategy@economy-ni.gov.uk or posted to the Energy Strategy Team, Department for the Economy, Netherleigh, Massey Avenue, Belfast BT4 2JP

4. Members of the Energy Strategy team are available to introduce the Call for Evidence document at events that will be tailored to individual audiences throughout the Call for Evidence period.  Requests to host such an event are welcomed at energystrategy@economy-ni.gov.uk or by telephone to (028) 9052 9444.

5. Follow us on Twitter @Economy_NI

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