A major new strategy to decentralise energy production has been launched with the UK Government and Great British Energy (GBE) unveiling the Local Power Plan.

Backed by up to £1 billion in funding, the initiative is designed to give communities across Northern Ireland the power to own, manage, and profit from their own clean energy infrastructure.

As part of the roll-out, Great British Energy is collaborating with the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver an initial £1.66 million investment across six specific projects. A primary focus of this early funding is the decarbonisation of the further education sector. Four major institutions—Belfast Met, Northern Regional College, South Eastern Regional College, and South West College—will receive solar panels and advanced battery storage technology. These upgrades are expected to significantly reduce operational costs while enhancing energy security for the colleges.

Mark Richardson, Director of RenewableNI, welcomed the announcement, noting that Northern Ireland already has a proven track record of community-led energy success.

He stated: "We welcome the commitment to investment in Northern Ireland through the Local Power Plan. Support for community-led renewable projects can help build on what is already working here, giving communities the confidence and capacity to play a greater role in delivering clean, secure energy for the region. "Northern Ireland has a strong track record of delivering renewable energy projects that provide tangible, long-term benefits for local communities. From community benefit funds supporting local services, to shared ownership and local supply-chain participation, renewables here have consistently demonstrated how communities can be partners in delivery, not passive hosts. That experience puts Northern Ireland in a strong position to build on the ambition of the Local Power Plan and scale community participation further."

The plan aims to move beyond "passive hosting" of energy sites, instead encouraging residents to become active partners. Mr Richardson highlighted that local ownership helps keep economic value within the region, supporting local apprenticeships, maintenance jobs, and long-term employment in both urban and rural areas.

He added: "Community-owned and community-backed projects also strengthen energy security and deliver skilled jobs across rural and urban areas alike. By anchoring investment locally, they help retain value in the regional economy while supporting apprenticeships, maintenance roles and long-term operational employment.

"Crucially, communities will play a central role in meeting Northern Ireland's renewable energy and decarbonisation targets. Unlocking that potential at pace will be essential if we are to deliver a secure, affordable and low-carbon energy system that works for everyone."

Residents, community groups, and local authorities interested in developing clean energy projects in their own towns or villages are encouraged to visit the Great British Energy website to express interest in future funding and technical advice. GBE has pledged to continue its work with the Northern Ireland Executive to identify further opportunities for regional collaboration.