The Economy Committee agreed to hold an emergency meeting on Monday 16 March. DUP Economy Spokesperson Phillip Brett proposed the session to question the Economy Minister and Permanent Secretary about £81 million in funding for energy bills.

The funds stem from a UK Government pledge to cut average household energy bills by £150 per year across the UK. Brett stated that 75% of renewable obligation funding, totalling £81 million, becomes available over the next three years starting 1 April.

The Permanent Secretary told the Economy Committee he lacked details on the scheme. He confirmed no in-depth discussions occurred with relevant officials. No business case has been submitted to the Treasury.

Brett pointed to initial department correspondence claiming the renewable obligation did not apply in Northern Ireland. Further questions led to confirmation of the funding availability.

Brett linked the Permanent Secretary's lack of awareness to priorities set by Economy Minister Conor O'Neill. He called for the department to deliver the funds to Northern Ireland households.