AQW 38051/22-27

Mr David Honeyford
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 13/01/2026
Answered On Date: 29/01/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail when she expects the first auction under the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee scheme, to take place.

Answer:

Delivering additional renewable electricity generation is complex, demanding a careful balance between security of supply, affordability, and legislative compliance.

My officials are prioritising the Primary Bill needed to make the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee scheme operational. Once the primary Bill is in place, subordinate legislation will be taken forward to set out the detailed arrangements.

These powers will enable us to run auctions at the right time, securing the best technologies and capacity to meet our targets at a fair price for consumers. The timeline for the first auction will be confirmed alongside the consultation on the Terms and Conditions, which is expected later in 2026.