Debate contribution: Energy Market

Debate contribution by Mr Mark Durkan on 11 June 2024.

MLA

Mr Mark Durkan

Party at the time

Social Democratic and Labour Party

Date

11 June 2024

Type

Debate contribution

Business

Private Members' Business

Heading

Energy Market

Assembly identifier

Official Report component 4496082

Read the official Assembly record

Text

Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-Leas-Cheann Comhairle.

I must say that it is heartening to hear that parties are on the same page on energy transition, reducing costs for people who face financial hardships and recognition of the need to create a cleaner, greener energy market. As Mr McMurray said, in recent years, following the fallout from the RHI scheme, renewables in Northern Ireland have almost become the "He who must not be named" of the energy sector. Now, with broad recognition of the need to move away from our reliance on fossil fuels and harness the opportunities that are offered by our unique position on renewable energy, I am hopeful that we can deliver a more magical outcome. As outlined by contributors this afternoon, households and businesses alike are shouldering the financial burden of high energy costs, limited competition, sub-par infrastructure and reliance on fossil fuels. That is unsustainable and requires urgent attention. We must deliver a viable, long-term renewable energy plan — one that provides security of supply, ensures affordable renewable energy for all consumers and supports the transition to net zero. The rapidly growing sector has the potential to create thousands of jobs here, guaranteeing the improved health of our economy and our environment. The financial and practical benefits of a shift towards clean energies are clear-cut: that is why Governments everywhere are investing in home-grown renewable industries. As other Members said, we need a whole-system approach to decarbonisation. It is clear that planning is an integral cog in the machine of decarbonisation. There must be collaboration between Departments to ensure that all the intricate parts work smoothly to drive us towards a more sustainable energy market. It is frustrating to see inefficiencies plaguing the planning system, with unnecessary delays, applications stuck in bureaucratic limbo and an apparent lack of will to do things differently. Much of that is caused by a lack of resources, be it in planning or across statutory consultees. One solution lies in adopting a provision in the planning system for prioritising climate-friendly projects. That approach, which is akin to systems that have been implemented in Norway and Scotland and whose progressive policies appear to be light years ahead, allows for the expedited processing of projects that are aligned to net zero goals. I am cognisant, however, that that necessary shift from fossil fuels will not happen overnight, nor can it happen without adequate regulation. That is why one of the core issues that we must address in any energy policy is energy efficiency in homes. I concur, therefore, with my colleague Ms McLaughlin that the retrofitting agenda must be front and centre of our discussions. The leaking of heat and money, pouring from homes across the North, is one of the most important infrastructure priorities that we face. Addressing that concern would save hard-pressed families across the North hundreds of pounds every year on their energy bills, helping to end fuel poverty once and for all. To date, schemes, including the Housing Executive's cavity wall insulation action plan, have borne little fruit. Only a fraction of properties have benefited from that initiative. Devastating cuts as a result of DFC's capital budget, which have been imposed on such upgrade and energy-efficiency schemes, including the affordable warmth programme, fill me with apprehension, not to mention the many tenants who are desperately awaiting energy-efficient measures. Implementing a comprehensive housing retrofit programme in Northern Ireland is not merely a matter of improving energy efficiency; it is an investment in the health, comfort and financial well-being of the public. It would help to address the pressing need to upgrade ageing housing stock, reduce energy bills for households and be a step towards decarbonisation. By retrofitting homes with better insulation, efficient heating systems and renewable energy technologies, we can alleviate fuel poverty, improve indoor air quality and enhance overall living standards for generations to come. I am glad and grateful for the support that has been indicated for our amendment. In conclusion, if we hope to achieve climate action targets for 2030 and 2050, a collaborative, cross-border and all-islands approach, and wider joined-up efforts with Europe, will be vital. We need a change in attitude from all politicians, energy suppliers, businesses and consumers. The building blocks for change are there: it is about knowing how to construct them effectively. Tús maith leath na hoibre.

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

Assessment

Not flagged

Jev’s structured answers

Assessed 21 October 2026 at 10:44 UTC by jev-1.13.0 (requested as typesafe/jev) under rubric 2026.10-r9, methodology 1.9.

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