RenewableNI welcomed the step, describing it as a significant moment in delivering the REPG. The Bill establishes the legislative foundation for the scheme, regarded as crucial to boosting home-grown renewable electricity and providing long-term price stability for consumers and investors.

Following the introduction of the Bill, Dr Archibald said: "The introduction of this Bill is central to securing more locally produced renewable energy at a stable price, helping to protect households and businesses from global energy price shocks.

"As a region with an abundance of renewable energy resources, this Bill sends a strong signal to industry, positioning the north as a competitive and attractive destination for investment."

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The legislation will set the framework for holding competitive renewable electricity auctions at the appropriate time, with a strong emphasis on benefits for local communities. The Minister said: "From the outset, I have been clear that any scheme must deliver for local communities. The Bill allows my department to put in place the necessary regulations so that communities hosting REPG projects will benefit."

RenewableNI Director, Mark Richardson, said: "Generating more electricity from local renewables will provide consumers with long-term protection from the volatility of global energy markets, which drives the price spikes we all see on our bills.

"The Bill will provide the certainty needed by the renewable sector to unlock significant investment, bringing jobs, long-term rates income and community benefits that will be felt across the region, particularly in rural areas."

Further regulations will follow once the Bill is enacted to set out how the REPG will operate in practice. The Department for the Economy published the Final Scheme Design in September 2025, and the Bill's introduction is a key action in the Department's Energy Strategy Action Plan 2026.