The Utility Regulator has decided on two modifications to the transmission licence held by the System Operator for Northern Ireland (SONI).

The changes will allow SONI to ring-fence money collected from consumers to cover potential liabilities arising from the Clean Energy Package (CEP). They also adjust the application of the k-factor interest rate from one to two years, the regulator said.

The regulator published its decision paper following a public consultation launched on 9 April 2026 and closed on 15 May 2026. Two responses were received, from SONI and the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (CCNI), both of which were generally supportive of the proposed changes.

The revisions to the licence reflect the proposals consulted upon in April with no amendments, according to the decision paper.

The CEP cost ring-fencing addresses a liability that SONI may face under European clean energy market rules, while the k-factor adjustment relates to how interest is applied to differences between forecast and actual costs.

SONI manages the electricity transmission grid in Northern Ireland, ensuring a secure supply of power. The Utility Regulator oversees its economic regulation to protect consumers.

The changes are part of an ongoing tariff review process that highlighted a small number of revenue issues earlier this year.

Copies of the decision paper are available from the Utility Regulator in accessible formats upon request.