Written question asked by Selaine Saxby (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 April 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 April 2024 (named day). It was answered by Steve Baker (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 April 2024 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Renewable Energy: Northern Ireland

Question: What assessment he has made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential merits of extending the Contract for Difference scheme to Northern Ireland.

Answer: Energy policy is devolved in Northern Ireland and is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Executive Department for the Economy. The Department for the Economy (DfE) held a consultation on Design Considerations for its own bespoke Renewables Support Scheme in February 2023 which included seeking views on having a Contracts for Difference scheme in Northern Ireland. Consultation responses were recently published on 9 April 2024. DfE states that having considered the consultation responses, it will design a new Renewable Electricity Support Scheme for Northern Ireland which builds upon the support schemes across Great Britain, Ireland, and Europe. Northern Ireland has a vital role to play in helping the UK reach net zero by 2050.

Secondary information