Great British Energy and the UK government have launched the Local Power Plan, supported by up to £1 billion in funding.

The programme aims to empower communities across Northern Ireland to own and control their own clean energy schemes.

Working with the Northern Ireland Executive, Great British Energy will invest £1.66 million in six projects across the region. The package includes installing solar panels and battery storage to reduce energy bills at four further education colleges: South West College, South Eastern Regional College, Northern Regional College and Belfast Met College.

Responding to the announcement, RenewableNI director Mark Richardson said: "We welcome the commitment to investment in Northern Ireland through the Local Power Plan. Support for community-led renewable projects can help build on what is already working here, giving communities the confidence and capacity to play a greater role in delivering clean, secure energy for the region.

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"Northern Ireland has a strong track record of delivering renewable energy projects that provide tangible, long-term benefits for local communities. From community benefit funds supporting local services, to shared ownership and local supply-chain participation, renewables here have consistently demonstrated how communities can be partners in delivery, not passive hosts. That experience puts Northern Ireland in a strong position to build on the ambition of the Local Power Plan and scale community participation further.

"Community-owned and community-backed projects also strengthen energy security and deliver skilled jobs across rural and urban areas alike. By anchoring investment locally, they help retain value in the regional economy while supporting apprenticeships, maintenance roles and long-term operational employment.

"Crucially, communities will play a central role in meeting Northern Ireland's renewable energy and decarbonisation targets. Unlocking that potential at pace will be essential if we are to deliver a secure, affordable and low-carbon energy system that works for everyone."

Great British Energy is inviting expressions of interest for funding and guidance on developing local clean energy projects via its website. The organisation said it will continue collaborating with the Northern Ireland Executive to complement existing support and identify further opportunities.