Nirig Information

The Northern Ireland Renewables Industry Group (NIRIG) is the voice of the Irish Wind Energy Association and RenewableUK in Northern Ireland. NIRIG provides a conduit for knowledge exchange, policy development support and consensus on best practice between all stakeholders in renewable energy. NIRIG represents a significant and positive step forward for the renewables industry in Northern Ireland. Since the official launch of NIRIG in January 2011 we have increased the breadth and diversity of our membership and continue to grow in response to the burgeoning renewable energy industry in Northern Ireland. As a representative body, any member of either IWEA or RenewableUK with an interest in Northern Ireland may apply for membership of NIRIG. NIRIG is firmly committed to contributing to the ambitious goals outlined in the Strategic Energy Framework 2010 and we believe that with political leadership and a viable policy framework, it will be possible to reach the target of 40% electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2020. This will lead to improved energy security and a broader energy mix, reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions. There is a very positive strategic energy framework not only in Northern Ireland but also in Europe, but investment is at risk. Securing project finance, achieving planning consents and securing a robust grid connection are all becoming more difficult. However, our potential remains tremendous. NIRIG believes that well implemented and coherent policy platform will deliver a substantial renewables industry and significant benefit to Northern Ireland. NIRIG has developed a number of specialist technical sub-groups which each deal with a specific policy area of relevance to the industry. At present, these groups are: Planning and Environment Markets Grid Marine Energy A map with all wind generation on the island of Ireland can be found here.