As Northern Ireland continues its transition to a low-carbon energy system, questions around how local communities benefit from renewable energy developments have become increasingly important. This report, prepared by Community Energy Northern Ireland (CENI), examines current policy and industry practice across the UK and Ireland and explores how communities hosting renewable energy infrastructure can share in the economic value created by these projects.
Drawing on examples from Scotland, England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland, the report highlights a growing consensus that renewable energy developments should deliver meaningful and long-term benefits for local people. It reviews established approaches to community benefit funds, shared ownership opportunities and transparency measures, while identifying lessons that could help shape future policy in Northern Ireland.
The report concludes that Northern Ireland remains the only jurisdiction across these islands without a formal community benefit framework. With the introduction of the Renewable Electricity Price Guarantee (REPG) scheme on the horizon, CENI argues that there is a timely opportunity to establish clear guidance, consistent standards and greater transparency to ensure communities share fairly in the benefits of the energy transition.
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Sharing the Benefits of Renewable Energy: Why Northern Ireland Needs a Community Benefit Framework
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