Development of an Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland
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 Department for Economy is developing a new Energy Strategy to replace the existing Strategic Energy Framework. It will include the development of new policy and support for the decarbonisation of our energy mix – in transport, heat and power – through both fuel switching to renewable and lower-carbon fuels and energy efficiency (using less energy to deliver the same output).
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.”
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:
Timeline
The timeline for the creation of the Energy Strategy is available at:
Energy Strategy eBulletin
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.