SONI, the independent electricity transmission system operator for Northern Ireland, has hosted the Assembly’s Committee for the Economy at its Belfast headquarters.

The visit allowed MLAs to hear directly from SONI's power system specialists about what is needed to deliver a cleaner, more affordable and more secure energy system, aligned with Northern Ireland’s Energy Strategy targets and net zero ambitions.

Committee members were also shown around SONI's control centre, observing first-hand the operational challenges of running a power system during a period of transition.

SONI's Executive Leadership team outlined how it intends to decarbonise the electricity grid while safeguarding the safe, secure and reliable supply of power to homes, farms, businesses and public services across Northern Ireland.

The briefing highlighted SONI's key contributions to accelerating the transition, including delivery of strategic infrastructure such as the North South Interconnector and the Mid Antrim upgrade, as well as innovative enhancements in its 24/7 control centre to increase the share of renewable energy on the grid.

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Discussions also covered the levers available to government to speed up progress towards shared energy and climate goals. These included creating a Northern Ireland strategic spatial plan, moving to a more plan-led approach for electricity transmission infrastructure, supporting a community benefit model for host communities, and leading a public awareness campaign to build acceptance of critical infrastructure.

SONI Chief Executive Alan Campbell commented: "Electricity systems across the world are changing. Our teams of expert engineers have the task of transforming the electricity grid to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and support Northern Ireland’s collective clean energy and climate action goals.

"We recognise that meeting a challenge at this scale requires a change of approach, not just here at SONI, but more broadly across industry, civic society and at all levels of government, and in the regulatory landscape. That is why building on the trust that we have with our partners and stakeholders is a priority for us.

"Engagements like todays with the Economy Committee are a crucial part of ensuring elected representatives are kept informed on the key issues relating to the energy transition. Northern Ireland consumers and businesses are at the heart of the energy transition. Close collaboration between SONI and policymakers is key to delivering a cleaner, more affordable, and more secure energy future for everyone in NI and for generations to come."