Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 1, Northern Ireland has released the final design for its first Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG), a Contracts for Difference-style auction aimed at supporting renewables. The scheme is proposed for launch in the first quarter of 2027, with contracts expected to be awarded later that year.

Projects eligible to participate include onshore wind and solar developments above 5 MW, provided they have planning permission, an accepted grid connection offer, and evidence of financial commitment. Existing sites undergoing full repowering will also be able to compete under the framework. Contracts will last 15 years, with strike prices fully linked to inflation. A second REPG auction will follow, although the timeline for that has not yet been announced. Legislation enabling the auction process is expected to be introduced to the Northern Ireland Assembly this year.

The Department for the Economy described the REPG as “a significant milestone in delivering more stable energy prices for consumers.” Officials highlighted that the scheme will incentivize increased renewable electricity generation and position Northern Ireland as an attractive destination for investment.

Trade association RenewableNI welcomed the framework, calling it “the much-needed key to unlock investment in renewables” and noting that it provides “long-term price certainty for operators.” RenewableNI chair Tamasin Fraser said: “The announcement is one of, if not the, most directly beneficial actions the Executive has taken to power economic growth here, particularly in rural areas.”

Fraser emphasized the importance of timely delivery: “Ambition must now be matched by delivery and there can be no delay in the implementation of the REPG. Progressing the legislation required to hold the first auction in Q1 2027 is critical if we are to realise the benefit of the announcement.”

She also noted remaining challenges to achieving the legislative target of at least 80% renewable electricity consumption in Northern Ireland by 2030, as set out in the Climate Change Act. Fraser highlighted issues including grid constraints, planning delays, and the lack of a policy framework for long-duration energy storage. She added that support for smaller projects is also essential, as these can make a significant contribution to the green economy.

Fraser concluded: “We are keen to support the department and work with everyone involved to ensure there is a clear, timely implementation plan that includes support for these enabling factors.” The REPG is designed to provide investors with certainty, encourage new renewable projects, and help Northern Ireland progress toward its 2030 renewable energy goals while maintaining stable energy prices for consumers.

The initiative marks a major step in Northern Ireland’s renewable energy strategy, balancing policy, investment certainty, and practical measures to accelerate deployment of wind and solar capacity across the region.