13/05/2026
Assembly Backs Bill to Permanently Close Non-Domestic RHI Scheme
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed the Northern Ireland Assembly's decision to support the RHI (Closure of Non-Domestic Scheme) Bill at its Final Stage today.
The passing of this Bill establishes the necessary legal framework to bring the controversial scheme to a formal end. While the Bill handles the primary legislation for closure, the specific operational details and arrangements will be outlined in forthcoming closure regulations, which will also require Assembly approval.
Minister Archibald emphasised that the move is essential for balancing the interests of the public with those of the scheme's participants.
The Minister stated: "Bringing the Scheme to an orderly close and putting in place arrangements that deliver a fair outcome for all - for both those who participated in the Scheme in good faith, and the taxpayer – is the right thing to do."
Acknowledging the work of those involved in the legislative process, she added: "I am grateful to all those involved in preparing and scrutinising this Bill. My Department will now move quickly to share the next steps with the Committee, to allow further scrutiny, and to conclude the formal processes as quickly as possible."
The Department for the Economy is expected to engage with the relevant Committee shortly to ensure the final stages of the closure are completed efficiently.
The passing of this Bill establishes the necessary legal framework to bring the controversial scheme to a formal end. While the Bill handles the primary legislation for closure, the specific operational details and arrangements will be outlined in forthcoming closure regulations, which will also require Assembly approval.
Minister Archibald emphasised that the move is essential for balancing the interests of the public with those of the scheme's participants.
Acknowledging the work of those involved in the legislative process, she added: "I am grateful to all those involved in preparing and scrutinising this Bill. My Department will now move quickly to share the next steps with the Committee, to allow further scrutiny, and to conclude the formal processes as quickly as possible."
The Department for the Economy is expected to engage with the relevant Committee shortly to ensure the final stages of the closure are completed efficiently.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Rather cold with a mix of sunny spells and frequent blustery showers, which will be heavy at times with a risk of thunder. Occasionally strong northwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:Some late sunny spells, then clear spells overnight, with showers, the showers becoming less frequent and lighter. Northwesterly breeze continuing, locally strong in coastal parts. Minimum temperature 4 °C.