Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has cemented its position at the forefront of energy generation by joining the all-island advocacy network, Smart Grid Ireland.

The network's mission is to facilitate the delivery of a secure, affordable and sustainable energy infrastructure, positioning Ireland at the forefront of global smart grid development to create long-term economic wealth.

The councillors of Mid & East Antrim will serve as members on Smart Grid Ireland, working to shape the future of Kilroot and Ballylumford Power Stations and the electricity interconnector between Northern Ireland and Scotland.

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Alderman Billy Ashe MBE, who chairs the council group set up to consider energy provision and supply, said: "It is vital existing local energy suppliers are placed at the heart of discussions around a long-term energy strategy for Northern Ireland. As a council, we need to continue to lobby for our existing energy suppliers to play a key role in the consultation process ahead of the proposed creation of a new energy strategy for Northern Ireland, with the aim of securing sustainable contracts to supply the regional energy market.

"Energy policy is an important factor for council, given we are large consumers of energy and require a secure and sustainable supply. The two power stations are core elements to our local economy. It not only affects residents but wider commerce and industry. By signing up to Smart Grid Ireland's energy cluster we can explore funding opportunities in the sector, look at where we can best use energy resources across the borough and ultimately lead to improved efficiencies."

(CM/JG)