Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced a £2.17 million investment aimed at helping more than 1,000 low-income households improve their home energy efficiency.

Channelled through the NI Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), the funding will be used to provide insulation and various energy-saving upgrades.

This latest injection of capital brings the Department for the Economy's total contribution toward domestic energy measures to more than £5 million over the last three years. The programme is delivered by the Energy Saving Trust on behalf of the Utility Regulator.

During a visit to Coleraine, Minister Archibald stated: "This funding will enable more than 1,000 low income households to install practical measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation. These improvements will help reduce energy bills, improve comfort and warmth, and lower carbon emissions.

"Over 1,600 homes have already benefited from £3.5million of additional support provided by my Department in the past two years. I am committed to ensuring that no one is left behind as we transition to a greener, more sustainable economy." The Minister also noted that the investment serves as a boost for local businesses tasked with installing these energy-efficient services.

Coleraine resident Sammy Aiken, who has already benefited from the initiative, commented: "Thanks to the scheme, I was able to have roof insulation installed without paying the £1,500 upfront cost. Our home feels warmer and more comfortable, and our energy bills have gone down – it's made a big impact for us."

Peter Russell, Executive Director at the Utility Regulator, welcomed the news, highlighting that NISEP has invested £108 million since 2010. This investment is projected to return £845 million in savings for both domestic and business customers.

He added: "NISEP is about helping homes and businesses become more energy efficient, while also reducing carbon emissions. An average of more than 3,500 households have benefitted from NISEP funding annually in recent years.

"We are proud to continue administering NISEP in partnership with the Energy Saving Trust, to ensure energy efficiency support is provided to those who most need it."

Further information on NISEP, including eligibility and how to apply, is available at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/programme/nisep