Newly released figures from the Department for the Economy have highlighted an ongoing downturn in renewable electricity generation across Northern Ireland.

The 'Electricity Consumption and Renewable Generation in Northern Ireland' report is issued on a quarterly basis. The data reveals that in the 12-month period leading up to March 2026, a total of 3,382 GWh of renewable electricity was produced via onshore wind and solar platforms. This output accounted for 38.4 per cent of Northern Ireland's Gross Final Electricity Consumption.

Responding to the data, RenewableNI Director Mark Richardson stated: "This follows a series of disappointing outputs from the Department, following the publication of the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2026.

"Today's figures risk presenting a false narrative. While the headline figures may appear stable, the underlying reality is that Northern Ireland is not making progress at the pace required. We are moving backwards at a time when our neighbours are progressing. "Achieving energy security is a critical strategic priority for governments across the world. Removing our exposure to volatile global fossil fuel markets is needed to protect consumers from price shocks and to sustain and grow the economy in Northern Ireland."

He further remarked: "This decline is even worse than it may seem as formatting of these reports now includes electricity imported from GB as well as bioenergy. The change in methodology makes like-for-like comparisons more difficult and risks obscuring underlying performance.

"At a meeting with DfE officials yesterday, RenewableNI raised the importance of the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG) for our energy security, to protect homes and businesses across the region and to increase investment in Northern Ireland.

"We raised concerns about the Action Plan 2026 and welcomed clarity on expected delivery by the end of the year and the continued aim to bring forward REPG to the Assembly before summer recess.

"We also raised planning reform delivery and grid connection reform as essential for the delivery of renewable energy. RenewableNI will continue to engage with the Department over the coming months."

Mr Richardson concluded: "While Northern Ireland is rich in renewable resources, time is not one of them. It is vital we see policy action soon before the economy and NI citizens miss out on the renewable opportunities."