Stephen Cross

The firm, in partnership with Northern Ireland Electricity Networks (NIE Networks), recently brought together key stakeholders within the energy sector to debate how the industry should create a flexible and integrated system over the coming decades.

The event took place as the Department for the Economy (DfE) is consulting on a proposed new energy strategy for Northern Ireland.

Chaired by energy journalist Jamie Delargy, the roundtable heard from wide range of stakeholders and experts, including the Utility Regulator NI, SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland), the Consumer Council and industry representatives, as well as academics.

The discussion highlighted a number of key points including the opportunity to develop hydrogen generation as a means of harnessing onshore and offshore wind energy, and options for replacing oil and gas in heat and energy systems.

Stephen Cross, director and head of energy and renewables at Cleaver Fulton Rankin, said: “Our participation in such an important discussion for Northern Ireland Energy Strategy was a highlight for our team.

“We hope that the discussion with leading experts from across the sector will help inform responses to the Department’s consultation and inform the wider debate on Northern Ireland’s transition to net zero, and we look forward to policy direction being launched later this year.”