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Economic Development

Northern Ireland facing potential electricity blackouts as grid operator warns of need for fossil fuel alternatives

Grid operator SONI needs to find alternatives to keeping lights on with fossil fuels to meet rising demand

The report highlighted concerns about the ability of Kilroot power station to continue delivering because of running restrictions on new gas turbines, upgrade works and its move away from coal next year(Image: Brian Lawless/PA Wire)

Northern Ireland could face potential blackouts in the coming years, a new report from electricity grid operator SONI has warned.

They say the industry needs to find alternatives to keeping the lights on with fossil fuels to meet increasing energy demand.

Around 68% of the province's power comes from burning gas (44%) and coal (24%) while wind creates 17%, 15% is imported and 1.4% comes from other sources according to the Utility Regulator.

The Generation Capacity Statement (2022-31) which is carried out annually by SONI in partnership with EirGrid examines future challenges for the industry.

It found margins between supply and demand “is tight” up to 2026 when NI could reap the benefits of the planned North-South Interconnector.

And highlighted concerns about the ability of Kilroot power station to continue delivering because of running restrictions on new gas turbines, upgrade works and its move away from coal next year.

SONI Managing Director, Alan Campbell, said: “Electricity system operators globally are all experiencing similar challenges as we move through the transition from systems reliant on fossil fuels to cleaner systems based on renewable energy.

“What is important is that SONI identify the risks and signal our concerns so that the industry, government and the regulator are aware and that the investment signals are transparent and made publicly available.”