Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed the commencement of new electricity connection charging arrangements from 1 July, designed to make grid access fairer and more affordable.

The policy gives effect to her decision last year to ease the burden on rural households and firms seeking a new connection or an increase in capacity.

Under the revised approach, the previous financial disadvantage faced by applicants — particularly in rural areas — is removed, with the expense of strengthening the network recovered from all electricity customers over a longer period.

Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: "Today marks real progress for electricity customers and implements my decision to ensure that the cost of connecting to our electricity network is fair and just for all.

"By sharing these costs more widely, we are making it easier for families to build homes in their local communities, and for rural businesses to invest, expand and create more good jobs. This will strengthen local economies and drive regional economic development across the north. "These reforms also bring the north into closer alignment with the rest of Ireland and Britain, improving our competitiveness as a place to do business, work and live."

Officials said the changes will help unlock investment, support economic growth and accelerate the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy.

Welcoming the move, CBI Northern Ireland Chair, Brian Donaldson, said: "At a time when the cost of doing business remains the number one concern for business leaders, changes such as these can make a real difference to investment decisions, business confidence, and overall economic growth.

"Local companies are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and increasing their use of renewable energy, and fairer grid connection arrangements are a critical component in enabling that transition."

Edel Creery, Executive Director Customer & Operations at NIE Networks, also backed the reforms: "By sharing costs more equitably, they will make it easier for households and businesses to connect, supporting a more sustainable energy future.

"We encourage anyone planning a new or upgraded connection to get in touch so we can provide advice and support throughout the process."