Debate contribution: Economic Investment: Electricity Grid

Debate contribution by Dr Caoimhe Archibald on 14 September 2026.

MLA: Dr Caoimhe Archibald
Party at the time: Sinn Féin
Date: 14 September 2026
Type: Debate contribution (made as a minister)
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Economic Investment: Electricity Grid
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5685495

Text

I thank the Member for his question. One of the key reasons why we took the decision that we did on connection charging policy was to address the unfairnesses in the existing system, particularly for rural businesses, which often faced much greater costs. Under the previous arrangements, customers in areas where the grid was weaker could face significantly higher costs where reinforcement of the wider network was required. The new arrangements that are now in place spread those costs more fairly across the customer base and make it easier and more affordable for homes and businesses, particularly in rural areas, to connect to the grid. They help remove that unfair geographic penalty and deliver greater fairness regardless of location. As I said, that is particularly important for making a more level playing field for rural businesses. We have had positive feedback, but obviously it takes time to see the impact of some of the changes. The investment by NIE Networks in the grid will play an important part in addressing some of the challenges that we face.

177 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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