Leading renewable energy company Solmatix has welcomed two major policy developments it says signal a decisive move towards a cleaner, more resilient and more affordable electricity system in Northern Ireland.

The Renewable Electricity Generation Bill has been introduced to the Northern Ireland Assembly by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald to boost renewable generation and give investors greater certainty across the sector.

In parallel, updated electricity grid connection charging arrangements that came into effect this week mean the costs of reinforcing the network will now be shared by all users, substantially lowering upfront expenses for many seeking new or upgraded connections.

Neville Bell, Managing Director of Solmatix, said the measures together mark one of the most positive moments for the industry in recent years.

He "Taken together, these announcements send a strong message that Northern Ireland is serious about accelerating the transition to renewable energy.

"The Renewable Electricity Generation Bill provides an important legislative framework, while the new approach to grid connection charging removes one of the financial barriers that has previously made renewable energy projects more challenging for many organisations.

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"We welcome both initiatives and the positive direction they represent."

Bell said Solmatix is experiencing sustained demand from businesses, manufacturers, farmers, public sector bodies and homeowners aiming to enhance energy security, cut operating costs and reduce carbon emissions.

"Renewable energy is no longer simply an environmental ambition.

"Organisations are looking for greater certainty around energy costs, increased resilience and long-term sustainability. Measures that encourage investment and reduce barriers are good news for businesses and for Northern Ireland's wider economy."

Founded in 2008, Solmatix has delivered thousands of renewable installations across Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain, working across commercial, public sector, agricultural and residential markets.

While welcoming the progress, Bell said closer collaboration between government, industry and network operators will be crucial to fully unlock the region's renewable potential.

"There is genuine momentum within the sector, and that is incredibly encouraging.

"The next priority is ensuring this progress continues through investment in electricity network capacity, efficient planning processes, workforce development and continued support for businesses investing in renewable technologies.

"Northern Ireland has the expertise, experience and innovation to become a leader in renewable electricity generation. We have world-class businesses delivering projects every day, highly skilled engineers and a growing supply chain that is ready to support that ambition.

"By maintaining this momentum and continuing to remove barriers to investment, we have an opportunity to create a cleaner, more secure and more affordable energy future that benefits businesses, communities and future generations."

Bell added that organisations are showing increased confidence as they plan long-term investments in clean energy.

"As businesses continue to face rising energy costs and increasing sustainability expectations, investment in renewable energy has never made more commercial sense.

"We look forward to continuing to work with organisations across Northern Ireland to help turn policy into practical action by delivering renewable energy projects that provide lasting environmental and economic benefits."