A report released by the Public Accounts Committee states that critical deadlines must be met to achieve the goals set out in the Path to Net Zero Energy strategy.
This Executive-wide plan, published in 2021 and led by the Department for the Economy, aims to cut energy consumption from buildings and industry by 25% while ensuring at least 80% of electricity comes from renewable sources.
The inquiry examined whether annual action plans effectively linked activities to specific targets, measurable outcomes, and clear accountability measures.
Committee members noted that proposed actions often lacked defined timescales and were unclear regarding their intended results.
Evidence presented included responses from business and energy sector organisations, such as the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Powering Progress on Energy report issued in January 2026.
A significant concern raised was the potential diversion of investment towards Great Britain, Ireland, and other European markets where policy frameworks and delivery timelines appeared more certain.
The committee's work builds on earlier concerns previously raised by the Northern Ireland Audit Office regarding the Department for the Economy's performance.
Since 2020, almost £124 million of public money has been spent on energy-related programmes and staffing costs within the Energy Group.
An event to mark the release of the report will take place on Thursday 22 October between 1.00pm and 2.30pm in the Senate Chamber, Parliament Buildings.
For further information regarding the inquiry, contact Felicity Templeton at the Communications Office on 07977 635930 or via email at felicity.templeton@niassembly.gov.uk.