The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme will run for two more years, from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2029. The Utility Regulator announced the extension in collaboration with the Department for the Economy.

A framework document for the period will appear at the end of September 2026. It will include a call for schemes. The document adds a break clause to end the programme after the first year, by 31 March 2028, if the Department for the Economy's successor scheme starts.

The successor scheme, Domestic Energy Efficiency and Low Carbon Heat Programme, is under development for a 2027 or 2028 launch. A consultation on its design is planned later this year. If the successor does not operate, the current programme continues into 2028-2029.

Organisations seeking funding must submit an interest form in September 2026. The Energy Saving Trust, as programme administrator, will provide bid details. Successful schemes start in April 2027 and may last two years based on first-year results and successor timing.

New primary bidders need to register by 31 July 2026 via a form to nisep@est.org.uk. They must meet eligibility criteria from the current framework, though these may change. The administrator will guide applicants after submission.