AQW 41596/22-27

Miss Michelle McIlveen
Democratic Unionist Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 27/02/2026
Answered On Date: 04/03/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of jobs currently supported in the low-carbon and renewable energy sector; and (ii) any anticipated growth over the next 10 years.

Answer:

(i) The ONS survey ‘Low Carbon and Renewable Energy Economy, UK: 2024’

estimates employment of 7,100 (FTE) in the low carbon and renewable energy sector in the north.

(ii) My department has not modelled anticipated growth in this sector over the next 10 years; however, it is worth noting that, over the 10-year period from 2015 to 2024, the north recorded the largest percentage increase in employment (from 4,400 to 7,100 FTEs) – compared to Scotland, England and Wales. My Low Carbon / Net Zero Sector Action Plan sets out the range of key activities my department and its delivery partners are taking forward to grow the sector, building on its innovative potential.