Renewable Electricity Generation Bill and fairer grid connections create positive momentum for businesses investing in clean energy

Leading renewable energy company Solmatix has welcomed two significant developments that it says mark an important step forward for Northern Ireland's clean energy future.

The introduction of the Renewable Electricity Generation Bill to the Northern Ireland Assembly, alongside new electricity grid connection charging arrangements that came into effect this week, demonstrates growing momentum towards creating a more affordable, accessible and resilient renewable energy system.

The Renewable Electricity Generation Bill, introduced by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, is designed to support increased renewable electricity generation and provide greater certainty for investment across the sector.

At the same time, new electricity grid connection charging arrangements mean the costs of reinforcing the electricity network will now be shared across all network users, significantly reducing the upfront costs for many organisations seeking new or upgraded electricity connections.

Neville Bell, Managing Director of Solmatix, said the two announcements represent one of the most positive periods for Northern Ireland's renewable energy sector in recent years.

"Taken together, these announcements send a strong message that Northern Ireland is serious about accelerating the transition to renewable energy.

"The Renewable Electricity Generation Bill provides an important legislative framework, while the new approach to grid connection charging removes one of the financial barriers that has previously made renewable energy projects more challenging for many organisations.

"We welcome both initiatives and the positive direction they represent."

Neville Bell said Solmatix continues to see strong demand from businesses, manufacturers, farmers, public sector organisations and homeowners looking to improve energy security, reduce operating costs and lower carbon emissions.

"Renewable energy is no longer simply an environmental ambition. It has become a strategic business decision.

"Organisations are looking for greater certainty around energy costs, increased resilience and long-term sustainability. Measures that encourage investment and reduce barriers are good news for businesses and for Northern Ireland's wider economy."

Founded in 2008, Solmatix has delivered thousands of renewable energy installations across Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain, supporting organisations across the commercial, public sector, agricultural and residential markets.

While welcoming the recent announcements, Neville Bell believes continued collaboration between government, industry and network operators will be essential to fully unlock Northern Ireland's renewable energy potential.

"There is genuine momentum within the sector, and that is incredibly encouraging.

"The next priority is ensuring this progress continues through investment in electricity network capacity, efficient planning processes, workforce development and continued support for businesses investing in renewable technologies.

"Northern Ireland has the expertise, experience and innovation to become a leader in renewable electricity generation. We have world-class businesses delivering projects every day, highly skilled engineers and a growing supply chain that is ready to support that ambition.

"By maintaining this momentum and continuing to remove barriers to investment, we have an opportunity to create a cleaner, more secure and more affordable energy future that benefits businesses, communities and future generations."

Neville Bell added that Solmatix is already seeing growing confidence from organisations planning long-term investment in renewable energy.

"As businesses continue to face rising energy costs and increasing sustainability expectations, investment in renewable energy has never made more commercial sense.

"We look forward to continuing to work with organisations across Northern Ireland to help turn policy into practical action by delivering renewable energy projects that provide lasting environmental and economic benefits."

ENDS//