Changes to Legislation to encourage renewable energy

Energy Minister Arlene Foster has announced a consultation on proposed changes to the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation (NIRO).

The NIRO supports the development of renewable electricity by encouraging suppliers to provide evidence that a specified proportion of their electricity has been generated from environmentally-friendly renewable sources.

The consultation seeks views on a number of proposals including support for refurbished generating equipment and increased support for Anaerobic Digestion generating stations.

Commenting on the consultation Arlene Foster said: “I recognise the potential of Anaerobic Digestion for Northern Ireland. It can make a contribution to both the renewable electricity and renewable heat targets as well as helping to meet waste reduction goals and reducing carbon emissions.

“As a direct result of the recent Call for Evidence on the costs of Anaerobic Digestion, this consultation proposes to increase support for Anaerobic Digestion generating stations obtaining accreditation from 26 April 2010. This is to reflect both the capital costs associated with this important technology and the wider environmental benefits.

After the consultation, I hope we will be able to put in place new legislation that will stimulate a significant amount of new investment in this technology.”

The Minister also highlighted that the proposals offer more support than that offered in Great Britain. She said: “This is another example of how my Department has tailored the support for renewables to meet the needs of Northern Ireland. It also highlights our continuing commitment to ensure the development, sustainability and viability of the renewable energy sector."

Notes to editors:

1. The changes to the NIRO will be contingent on obtaining State Aid approval from the European Commission and legislative approval of the Assembly. This will require separate State Aid approval for those elements that differ from the changes being implemented in GB.
2. The 2010 consultation on the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation (NIRO) proposes further amendments to the region's support system for renewable electricity.
3. It proposes that Anaerobic Digestion (AD) installations up to 500kW in size should receive 4 NIROCs per MWh (equivalent to around 18p per kWh) and that AD installations above that size should receive 3 NIROCs per MWh (equivalent to around 13.5p per kWh). Currently AD installations receive 2 NIROCs per MWh, regardless of size. The proposal will be subject to State Aid approval from the European Commission.
4. The consultation document can be accessed at the DETI website
5. For media enquiries please contact DETI Press Office, tel; 028 9052 9604. For media enquiries out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.