To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she will consider establishing a body similar to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland to promote and support the development of renewable energy.

The Energy Strategy Call for Evidence asked if there was a need for a dedicated organisation to ‘champion, lead and deliver’ sustainable energy advice and support in Northern Ireland, and if so, what should this look like.

The majority of responses supported the concept of a “one stop shop” for delivery of energy information, advice and funding in Northern Ireland. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland was cited as a best practice example.

The Energy Strategy is developing options based on the evidence received, and further research is also being carried out to gather additional evidence.

We are looking at best practice in Sustainable Energy Authorities in the Republic of Ireland, Great Britain, Europe and further afield.

The findings from this work will be presented in the Energy Strategy Options Consultation planned for March 2021.