Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has initiated a public consultation regarding the introduction of a new regulatory framework tailored for geothermal energy in Northern Ireland.

The proposed guidelines are designed to expand the geothermal market and safely harness the region's native underground heat resources. Geothermal energy utilises the natural heat stored beneath the Earth's surface to heat properties, offering a dependable and low-carbon alternative. Northern Ireland is the first jurisdiction across both the UK and Ireland to formally consult on such detailed geothermal regulations.

The Minister introduced the consultation at the GeoEnergy Discovery Centre during this year's Balmoral Show, highlighting the facility's value in driving public involvement. Speaking at the launch, Minister Archibald said: "Decarbonising heat is a major challenge, and geothermal energy offers a secure, locally available low‑carbon option for homes, businesses and district heating, helping protect consumers from global energy price spikes.

-- Advertisement --

"Further development is needed to ensure that geothermal energy can play a role in meeting our future heating needs, provide investor confidence and creating local, well-paid, skilled, 'green' jobs."

The consultation details draft legislation aimed at introducing clear and balanced regulations for larger‑scale geothermal developments. Concurrently, the proposals ensure that small-scale domestic installations will remain straightforward to access.

The Minister added: "These proposals are intended to support a growing geothermal sector that delivers clean, affordable heat while protecting the environment and respecting our urban and rural communities.

"Your view will help shape how geothermal energy is regulated here and how this local energy resource is used in the years ahead."

The consultation documents are accessible on the Department for the Economy website, with the feedback window open from 15 May to 7 August 2026.