The Northern Ireland, Department for the Economy is developing a new Energy Strategy to replace the existing Strategic Energy Framework. This Call for Evidence is part of an on-going public engagement process to inform and shape this strategy.
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 percent 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 percent electricity from renewable sources has been exceeded ahead of the 2020 date. However, the policy to achieve the 10 percent 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.
Undoubtedly there are 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.
This is your opportunity to shape the proposals to the next Executive.
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