NI risks missing 2030 energy goals, says Stormont committee
Northern Ireland's Public Accounts Committee warns that delays in implementing the energy strategy threaten 2030 targets and economic growth.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Northern Ireland's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) warns of missing 2030 energy targets.
- Policy delays and uncertainty risk driving business investments to Great Britain and Ireland.
- Nearly £124m of public funds has been spent on energy programmes since 2020.
- Lawmakers urge decisive action to unlock a potential £2bn green economy.
Time is running out to meet key targets within Northern Ireland's energy strategy by 2030, according to a report by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The inquiry examined the Department for the Economy's (DfE) delivery of the net zero strategy.
The committee heard warnings that Northern Ireland could lose out on significant economic opportunities if authorities fail to speed up action. Committee chair Daniel McCrossan stated that the government holds the responsibility to foster conditions for investment, otherwise capital risks flowing elsewhere.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Throughout the inquiry, PAC gathered testimonies from business and energy sector representatives indicating that uncertainty surrounding future policies and delivery timescales is hindering investment decisions. Evidence suggested that investments might be diverted to Great Britain, Ireland, and other European markets perceived as having more regulatory certainty.
Published in 2021, the energy strategy outlines plans to fully decarbonize by 2050 and ensure that at least 80 percent of electricity consumption originates from renewable sources. McCrossan pointed out that despite the massive economic potential, feedback from investors pointed to growing frustration over delays and policy ambiguities.
"Almost £124m of public money has been spent on energy-related programmes, since 2020. We need assurances that Northern Ireland is on track."
Daniel McCrossan, Public Accounts Committee Chair
Achieving net-zero targets requires not only ambitious long-term visions but also consistent regulatory frameworks that build investor confidence. When policy timelines become unpredictable, private capital in green infrastructure frequently shifts toward jurisdictions offering clearer and more stable delivery mechanisms, underlining the urgency for local governments to remove administrative barriers.
PAC deputy chair Tom Buchanan emphasized that the next four years remain critical, calling for decisive action, robust oversight, and a strong focus on tangible results. While acknowledging the department's confidence in achieving a £2bn green economy, members stressed that ambition must be successfully translated into measurable outcomes.
Source: BBC Science & Environment
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