Empowering Communities: Transforming Northern Ireland's Energy Landscape

SONIis the Electricity Transmission System Operator for Northern Ireland. We bring electricity to every part of Northern Ireland and plan ahead for future growth. From our control centre in Belfast, we match supply with demand every second of every day by using the transmission system. We are also responsible for planning for the future of the electricity grid.

Northern Ireland's Energy Strategy

The Northern Ireland Energy Strategy sets a pathway for energy to 2030 and takes us towards the ultimate goal of delivering a net zero power system by 2050. These targets are unprecedented and ambitious in scale; reaching them will require a whole systems approach across government, industry, and local communities. To ensure grid readiness for the increased integration of renewable energy sources, SONI alongside our partners in NIE Networks, must build-out the electricity grid, either by upgrading existing assets or developing new grid in parts of Northern Ireland where it currently doesn’t exist at the scale now required. Communities must be at the heart of planning these developments to the overall electricity grid. Meaningful engagement and partnership with communities set to host grid infrastructure is fundamental to the full delivery of Northern Ireland’s energy transition.

Collaboration with Involve

Last year, SONI published its revised Public Engagement Model, which recognized ‘broadening public participation’ as a strategic pillar in enhancing public support for grid development. To deepen community involvement, SONI appointed Involve as a delivery partner. Involve will facilitate community forums, allowing locals to have a say in shaping the grid infrastructure planning. Rebekah McCabe, Head of Northern Ireland at Involve, highlighted the importance of involving those impacted by the decisions, emphasizing the need for collaborative and transparent processes in response to climate change challenges.