Northern Ireland has published the final framework for its first-ever renewable electricity support scheme, with the inaugural auction under the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG) scheduled for early 2027.
The REPG, designed to mirror the UK’s Contracts for Difference (CfD) model, will offer 15-year inflation-linked contracts to successful bidders. The scheme is intended to boost investment in clean energy and support Northern Ireland’s target of meeting at least 80% of electricity consumption from renewables by 2030, as outlined in the region’s Climate Change Act.
Eligible participants for the first auction will include onshore wind and solar projects larger than 5 megawatts that hold planning consent, grid connection offers, and evidence of financial commitment. Repowered sites will also be allowed to compete.
“The REPG is a significant milestone in delivering more stable energy prices for consumers,” the Department for the Economy said. “It will incentivise an increase in renewable electricity generation and position Northern Ireland as a competitive and attractive destination for investment.”
Legislation enabling the auction process is expected to be introduced in the Northern Ireland Assembly later this year. A second REPG auction is planned but details on timing have yet to be released.
Trade body RenewableNI welcomed the announcement, calling it a critical step toward expanding the region’s green economy.
“This is the much-needed key to unlock investment in renewables,” said Tamasin Fraser, chair of RenewableNI. “Ambition must now be matched by delivery and there can be no delay in the implementation of the REPG.”
Fraser also urged policymakers to address remaining challenges, including grid constraints, planning delays, and the lack of a policy framework for long-duration energy storage.
“Progressing the legislation required to hold the first auction in Q1 2027 is critical if we are to realise the benefit of the announcement,” Fraser added.
Northern Ireland currently trails other parts of the UK in deploying support mechanisms for utility-scale renewables, but the government hopes the REPG will attract both domestic and international investors looking for long-term price certainty.
