AQW 7743/22-27

Mr Jonathan Buckley
Democratic Unionist Party
Upper Bann

Tabled Date: 28/02/2024
Answered On Date: 11/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy what practical measures he is taking to support hospitality businesses with rising energy costs.

Answer:

The large fluctuations in energy prices over the past number of years, driven by our continued reliance on importing fossil fuels, highlights the importance of our local Energy Strategy ‘The Path to Net Zero Energy’. One of the key objectives of the strategy is to ensure that all businesses have access to essential and affordable energy to enable an adequate standard of competitiveness. The focus is now on priorities for delivery to ensure that we maximise the benefits for our society and economy as soon as possible.

In addition, Invest NI delivers a suite of support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable NI businesses to become more efficient and resilient through green efficiencies. This includes fully funded Technical Consultancy and a Resource Matching Service. This support helps businesses to optimise and futureproof their operations by implementing green efficiencies to achieve carbon savings and cost savings to mitigate the impact of rising energy costs.