Facing up to new energy agenda

A MAJOR conference in September will see decision-makers and influencers face up to the challenges of the quickly changing energy environment, climate change and new demands from consumers.

‘Vision 2050: Options for a New Northern Ireland Strategic Energy Framework’ takes place at Titanic Belfast on 11 September.

Speaking for partners in the event, Cleaver Fulton Rankin, Stephen Cross, said that a new agenda faced our energy sector.

“There is no doubt our energy sector faces significant policy challenges”, said the Head of Energy at one of Northern Ireland’s leading commercial law firms. “Climate change is at the forefront of the public consciousness. Managing the energy system required to tackle this monumental challenge will be complex and necessitate strategic decision-making”.

Will Chambré, Managing Director of Chambré Public Affairs, said the legal target set by Government is more than a simple deadline.

“The UK Government has set a target for the achievement of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050”, said Will, speaking for Policy Eye Northern Ireland. “With Ireland also working towards its commitment there is pressure on Northern Ireland to keep pace.

“This new impetus from the two governments, and the public desire for change, gives added urgency to the development of a new policy framework that enables Northern Ireland’s energy producers and consumers to adapt appropriately and quickly.”

With the participation of senior officials from across the Northern Ireland Civil Service, industry leaders and politicians, this event promises an unparalleled opportunity to inform Stormont’s thinking, as the Department for the Economy sets out to develop a new strategic energy framework.

Conference chair, Jamie Delargy, said: “The participation of leading civil servants, regulators and energy industry leaders makes this a crucial conference for the future of Northern Ireland. It can help set the energy agenda for the next decade and beyond to 2050.”

SSE, Phoenix Natural Gas and NIE Networks are sponsoring the full-day event examining Northern Ireland’s energy future.

Sessions on the day will include a keynote address from Richard Rodgers, Head of Energy at the Department of the Economy and Jenny Pyper, Chief Executive at the Utility Regulator.

Stephen Cross, Cleaver Fulton Rankin, said: “The energy sector on the island of Ireland sits on the cusp of transformation. Climate change has begun to drive decarbonisation, digitisation will transform the management of consumption, while emergent technologies promise both demands on energy networks and great benefits. This is an essential conference for all who have a stake in the future of energy.”

For tickets and the full agenda visit https://www.chambrepa.com/policy-eye-events/