AQW 41723/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 03/03/2026
Answered On Date: 25/03/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy whether eligibility criteria for existing energy efficiency or fuel poverty schemes are kept under review, in light of rising home heating oil prices.

Answer:

I am aware that the price of home heating oil has risen considerably in recent weeks. I am very concerned about the potential impact of this on lower income or vulnerable households.

My Department leads on energy efficiency policies to help reduce household energy use and lower bills, with support available through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP).

NISEP eligibility criteria are set out in a formal Framework Document approved and published by the Utility Regulator for each programme period, most recently for 2025-27 with schemes delivered annually in line with that framework.

Officials continue to work closely with the Department for Communities, which has lead responsibility for addressing fuel poverty. Their newly launched Warm Healthy Homes Strategy sets out pathways to support low‑income households and improve energy‑inefficient homes.