Business

Renewable energy target exceeded ahead of schedule

Around 44 per cent of electricity used for the 12 months up to the end of June was generated from renewable sources - most of it from wind
Around 44 per cent of electricity used for the 12 months up to the end of June was generated from renewable sources - most of it from wind Around 44 per cent of electricity used for the 12 months up to the end of June was generated from renewable sources - most of it from wind

A STORMONT renewable energy target has been exceeded a year ahead of schedule.

Under the target, 40 per cent of power in Northern Ireland was to come from renewable sources by 2020.

According to figures released by the Department for the Economy yesterday, 44 per cent of electricity used for the 12 months up to the end of June was generated from renewable sources - most of it from wind.

A subsidy scheme aimed at increasing renewable electricity consumption was introduced in April 2005. It closed in 2017.

Before that date, just 3 per cent of the north's energy came from renewables.

Noel Lavery, permanent secretary of the Department for the Economy, said the subsidy scheme had been a huge success.

"This is a momentous achievement which has been accomplished by the collective efforts of a number of key stakeholders over a sustained period, and I am grateful for the considerable contribution of all the players in the renewable electricity industry, the investors and operators small and large, SONI, NIE Networks, Invest NI, the Utility Regulator and Ofgem," he said.

He added: "We recognise that achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 will require us to move significantly beyond 40 per cent, and this is something that is being considered as part of the development of a new energy strategy for Northern Ireland."

Meanwhile, NI Water has awarded a £34 million contract to independent energy provider Energia in a bid to buy more renewable energy.

The company is the largest consumer of electricity in Northern Ireland.

Through the new contract, 43 per cent of NI Water’s electricity will come from certified renewable sources.

Alistair Jinks, director of business services with NI Water, said it aims to get 40 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2021.

"A major programme is underway to reduce the use of energy via the improved control and maintenance of assets, by self-generating more renewable energy on its sites and by buying more energy from local renewable projects, referred to as power purchase agreements," he said.

"This new contract with Energia is designed to enable this reduction in use as well as the uptake of more renewable generation to take place."

Daniel Horgan from Energia said it was pleased to be awarded the contract.

"Energia are proud to partner with NI Water to support them in meeting the needs of communities all across Northern Ireland," he said.

"We have extensive experience of working with public services and recognise the pivotal role they play in supporting homes, businesses and communities."