AQW 50496/22-27

Miss Nuala McAllister
Alliance Party
North Belfast

Tabled Date: 03/07/2026
Answered On Date: 22/07/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any schemes that are available to assist first-time buyers with energy efficiency upgrades.

Answer:

Whilst there are currently no schemes specifically targeted at first-time buyers to support energy efficiency upgrades, first-time buyers may be eligible for support through existing schemes, alongside other homeowners, subject to the relevant eligibility criteria.

These include the NI Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), which provides support for energy efficiency measures and heat pumps, and the Affordable Warmth Scheme, which also provides support for the installation of energy efficiency measures in lower income households.

My Department consulted on Support for Low Carbon Heating in the Residential Sector. Responses to that consultation are being used, alongside research, to inform the development of a new Domestic Energy Efficiency and low carbon Heat Programme. My officials are currently developing the programme and intend to consult on scheme design and funding options in the coming months. This support scheme will be targeted at owner/occupiers, including first time buyers.