Increased socialisation of connection costs in the distribution electricity network

At the beginning of last year, I set out four key objectives as part of a new Economic Mission. These were to increase the number of working-age people in Good Jobs, to Promote Regional Balance, raise Productivity and to Reduce Carbon Emissions.

The transition to net zero carbon emissions by 2050 is essential to fulfil our legislative requirements through the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.  I will ensure the energy transition will fuel a greener and more sustainable economy that generates more prosperity and better opportunities for all.  I will ensure a just transition for energy consumers from fossil fuels to locally produced affordable renewable energy.  We have the resources including wind, biomethane and geothermal to do this.  We will urgently reduce our dependency on imported fossil fuels and break the link with global energy commodity prices which have caused such financial hardship in recent years.  This will help to ensure that people and businesses here pay a fair price for locally produced renewable energy.  

Reforming our current connection charging policy, through socialisation of network reinforcement costs will deliver fairness for homes and businesses seeking to connect renewable technologies such as heat pumps, electric vehicles and renewable generation.  This will encourage uptake of these new technologies and encourage investment across all areas of the North. 

We have only 60 months to 2030, and in delivering the targets for renewable electricity and carbon reduction, and we are committed to supporting homes and businesses in making the transition.  This significant reform represents a key element in the delivery of my economic vision and the Executive’s energy strategy and will be progressed to secure the benefits as quickly as possible.

CONOR MURPHY MLA

Minister for the Economy