New Proposals Aim To Encourage Greater Sustainable Energy Powers

The Department of Enterprise,Trade and Investment hasproposed asking the NorthernIreland Assembly to make newprimary legislation to allow forgreater powers for sustainableenergy and additional regulatorymeasures relating to natural gasand electricity.

Commenting on the consultation,Arlene Foster said: “Energyefficiency can make a realdifference to things that we all care about. Everyone wants a warm,healthy home and lower energycosts to help balance budgets. Wealso want to help makebusinesses more competitive andenvironmentally protect NorthernIreland for future generations.”

“As the Strategic EnergyFramework sets out, energyefficiency is at the heart of theExecutive’s approach to ensuringsafe, secure and affordable energysupplies. Energy efficiency is oftenthe quickest and most costeffective solution when comparedwith alternatives, saving on energybills and reducing overall demand.

“Energy savings have never beenmore important as we face so many energy challenges, particularlyrising fuel costs. The proposals Iam putting forward could create an ongoing programme of energysavings delivered on the ground inNorthern Ireland.”

Ms Foster also highlighted furthermeasures which will increase thesustainability of energy in NorthernIreland, adding: “Consultees havealready confirmed their support fora small-scale feed-in tariff forrenewable electricity generation –the proposed new Energy Bill willinclude provisions to allow for this.I am also seeking views as towhether the Department’s and theRegulator’s statutory duties remainappropriate for sustainable future of energy.”

The consultation also seeks viewson a number of proposals foradditional regulatory measuresrelating to natural gas and electricity.

The Minister concluded: “I hopethat people will give realconsideration to the developmentof future policy which could createa step change in energy savings inNorthern Ireland. I look forward tohearing their views.”

Visit www.energy.detini.gov.uk