AQW 38725/22-27

Dr Steve Aiken OBE
Ulster Unionist Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 21/01/2026
Answered On Date: 03/02/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans she has to support (i) boiler upgrade schemes; (ii) solar panels; (iii) batteries, for low income families; and (iv) low and zero-interest loans for reducing energy bills, in line with the statement from our nation’s Energy Secretary on 20 January 2026.

Answer:

On 20 January 2026, the British Government launched the Warm Homes Plan outlining support in the areas you raise. This plan contains announcements that are focused largely on England and there is a lack of clarity as to what this means for consumers here. My officials continue to engage with DESNZ, as they bring forward the design of the schemes and initiatives contained within the plan, some of which are not due to commence until the 2027/28 financial year.

In terms of local delivery, financial assistance is available through the NISEP, for the installation of whole house retrofit measures including insulation and heat pumps, supported by solar PV and battery storage. My Department has worked to add to the NISEP budget by providing over £5m in financial support for energy efficiency in low-income households over the last 3 years.

Looking forward, my Department published the Government Response to the consultation entitled Support for Low Carbon Heat in Residential Buildings Consultation on 26th January 2026. Next steps include development of a business case and regulations this year as we work to bring forward a scheme to replace NISEP.

My officials continue to work with colleagues in the Department for Communities who are currently developing the Warm Healthy Homes Fund and in collaboration with the Housing Executive and industry partners across several pilot projects to identify practical solutions to reduce energy bills. These pilots will inform future retrofit options as we continue to develop policy.