NI Chamber has published a new position paper outlining industry-led energy priorities for the remainder of this Assembly mandate and the next. Building Momentum with Common Purpose sets out a series of deliverable policy actions which Ministers and Departments can progress between now and the end of the next mandate in 2032.
The paper is the first major output from NI Chamber’s recently established Energy Taskforce. Drawing on direct input from businesses across sectors, it identifies what must happen now to strengthen energy security, reduce system costs, accelerate decarbonisation and support economic growth.
Priority deliverables
Setting out consensus-based recommendations from industry which are intended to accelerate rapid and meaningful change, the document makes clear and actionable suggestions.
Those recommendations include the development of a long-term economic strategy to guide investment and policy prioritisation, as well as the establishment of an all-party working group to educate and encourage cross-party political leadership for the energy transition.
The position paper stresses that across power, heat and transport, there is a need for policy clarity and timelines to build business and investor confidence. This includes agreed and clear policy on how we will heat our homes and businesses in the future. It also points to the need to engage consumers with transparent communication and targeted support for energy efficiency.
When it comes to the electricity grid, this report stresses the need to prioritise grid upgrades and storage solutions and the socialisation of grid connection costs in early 2026. It also calls for progress on enabling legislation, highlighting how current delays in legislative action, such as the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee Bill and the Offshore Installations Bill, hold back investment and the development of new technologies.
Additionally, it advocates for the development of biomethane in our gas network, highlighting the need to decarbonise heat and transport through pragmatic, sector-specific interventions.
Launching the position paper, Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, NI Chamber, said:
“Our new position paper is all about delivery. It has been designed to provide constructive support for Northern Ireland’s energy transition at a time of significant challenge and opportunity. Businesses are ready to invest, but they need clarity, certainty and coordinated leadership. By taking forward these practical actions now and carrying them through into the 2027–32 mandate, Northern Ireland can convert the energy transition into a genuine economic opportunity and also reduce costs.”
Alan Campbell, Chief Executive at NI Chamber’s Energy Partner, SONI, added:
“This position paper rightly focuses on the practical steps needed to make better use of our renewable resources, grid capacity, and enhance security and quality of supply. Targeted action – particularly on grid and innovation in power system operation, alongside public engagement – will deliver significant long‑term benefits for consumers, industry, and the wider economy.”