Inquiry Launched Over NI's Energy Renewable Target

The NI Affairs Committee is to investigate how Northern Ireland will meet its energy renewable target of 4% by 2020.

Member of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee, Danny Kinahan, has welcomed his committee colleagues' support for his call for an in-depth review of Northern Ireland's energy policy.

Mr Kinahan said high energy costs are cited as the main threat to businesses in the area.

Mr Kinahan said: "I wholeheartedly welcome this inquiry as it signals a concerted effort here in Westminster to address an issue that many perceive has been left in limbo in Stormont. Northern Ireland's energy sector is unique in that it is legislated from Westminster but is part of an all-island market. We need the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee to hear evidence from our energy providers, our energy infrastructure companies and our key stakeholders, to push for change in the way Westminster approaches our energy provision and how Westminster legislates for our all-island energy market.


"Put simply this is a step in the right direction for Northern Ireland. As we push for greater economic growth and as we move towards the devolution of corporation tax we need to make sure that the right discussions have taken place; that the decisions have been made based on evidence; and that any impediment to growth is given serious consideration."

(CD/LM)