Overcoming Barriers to the Clean Energy Transition in Northern Ireland: Re-thinking Policy, Planning and Participation

 Northern Ireland is facing a critical moment in its energy transition. The energy sector now produces nearly half of all NI emissions, and progress towards the 2030 clean‑energy targets has stalled—renewable electricity generation is declining, energy‑efficiency improvements are minimal, and the low‑carbon economy is growing too slowly. Belfast, where buildings alone account for 50% of emissions, sits at the centre of this challenge.

A recent independent review shows that despite £107 million invested since 2020, NI is significantly off‑track on all three of its 2030 energy goals. With renewable generation falling for the third year in a row and major policy and infrastructure delays, NI risks missing not only its 2030 targets but also its 2050 net‑zero commitments.

This event brings together leading voices from government, industry, and academia to explore why progress has stalled—and what must change now. Through two focused panel discussions, participants will unpack the barriers to implementation, the specific challenges facing Belfast, and the opportunities for accelerating action at scale.

• Panel 1: Energy Transition Barriers in Policy, Planning, & Participation
• Panel 2: Actionable Pathways for Meeting NI's Clean Energy Targets

Designed for policymakers, practitioners, researchers, and anyone invested in NI’s energy future, this event offers a timely, solutions‑driven conversation on how to get Northern Ireland back on track.

• Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. 
• This is a FREE event but has limited capacity.