Net zero: MPs to examine NI decarbonisation barriers

Barriers to Northern Ireland reaching its decarbonisation goals are to be examined by MPs.

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee at Westminster has announced a new inquiry in the wake of COP28.

The committee is concerned that renewable energy expansion in Northern Ireland has stalled.

A new renewables support scheme is also expected to be launched in the new year, dependent on the return power-sharing government.

The committee is seeking evidence on a number of issues including investment, the shared electricity market on the island of Ireland and grid capacity.

It will also consider how a green energy discount for investors could impact energy bills.

'Time is running out'

To contribute to the UK 2050 net-zero pledge, Northern Ireland has a goal of generating 80% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.

Currently, renewables contribute about half of Northern Ireland's energy demand.

As a whole, the UK has a goal of reaching net zero - the point at which carbon emissions going into the atmosphere are balanced by what is removed - by 2050.

The chair of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee, Sir Robert Buckland MP, warned that time is "running out" for delivering on the UK's net-zero targets.

"It is vitally important that every part of the UK contributes to upholding our obligations both internationally and to the planet," he said.

"Yet it is clear that we still have a way to go.

"With the anticipated announcement next year on Northern Ireland's plans to support renewable electricity generation, this inquiry is a timely examination of what needs to change to ensure Northern Ireland is on track to meet its goals."

Evidence can be submitted until 25 January 2024.