NIE Networks has been urged to move forward rapidly with the development of NI's electricity sector following its exciting announcement of £3 billion investment.

Under the investment plans electricity customers will be able to connect with low carbon technology from NIE Networks lines, pylons and substations.

These plans have been welcomed by some of Northern Ireland's leading renewable firms, Everun and PAC Group.

Managing director of Everun, Michael Thompson, has called for a cross-government approach to address the challenges such as planning that are hindering the country from achieving the climate goals agreed.

"While pressure on household and business bills should be avoided, this investment will enable NI to take further control of its own energy security and ultimately reduce costs," he said. 

-- Advertisement --

"We have a great opportunity to become a powerhouse in the generation and distribution of renewable energy, utilising our preferential location for wind resources and creating thousands of well-paid engineering-based jobs."

Both Everun and PAC Group have been calling for action on the infrastructure for some time and expressed frustration that the climate change goals may not be met, and will restrict business development.

"Business planning for their energy is part of a five-year cycle," said business development director at PAC Group, Darren Leslie.

"It is not something that owners can push back, and it is not something anyone can afford to ignore any further.

"The reality is that there will be frustrations, but these frustrations should be a driver towards solutions. The renewables industry in Northern Ireland have these solutions to hand, and we see, from the growing number of enquiries for sustainable energy production.

"Northern Ireland's Climate Action Plan has set ambitious targets that may or not be met, however, businesses must not see that as their driver, but rather what they can do to benefit themselves, employees, and owners."

Under the investment plan there will be 1,000 jobs created by NIE Networks. Both Mr Thompson and Mr Leslie believe that the renewables industry will in turn be recruiting more staff in engineering to meet the demands.