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Steven Agnew, Director of RenewableNI, comments on the publication of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Greenhouse Gas Inventories for Northern Ireland.

Steven Agnew said:

“The figures today show an increase in the greenhouse gas emissions between 2020 and 2021, which is very disappointing.  With the impact of climate change already being felt in Northern Ireland, we cannot afford to go backwards.

“If you want to decarbonise something, the fastest way to do that is to put a plug on it.  The Climate Act set the target of 80per cent renewable electricity generation by 2030. This will reduce electricity emissions by 75per cent from where they are today.  In addition, by electrifying heat and transport we can also reduce the climate impact of those sectors.

“RenewableNI members have enough projects in development to achieve a zero carbon electricity system by 2035.  Unfortunately, it’s typically taking between two and five years to get planning permission for large scale renewable projects.  This is driving investment elsewhere.

“The ability to dramatically decrease Northern Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, and to improve energy costs for consumers, is being held back by the slow pace of policy change.  The Assembly set ambitious climate targets.  It’s time for the Executive to be restored and those who set the goals to deliver them.”

ENDS.

For media inquiries please contact Judith Rance, Communications and Events Manager, RenewableNI, Judith.Rance@RenewableNI.com, 07875-681-794.