The Utility Regulator has published Northern Ireland's first Flexibility Needs Assessment, required under EU electricity market rules.

The assessment examines the growing need for flexibility in the electricity system as intermittent renewable generation increases. It identifies key factors that will influence future flexibility needs, including the timely delivery of network infrastructure, the pace of renewable energy deployment, and balancing decarbonisation with consumer affordability.

The document also highlights potential barriers to flexibility and sets out recommendations for action. It is aimed at electricity industry participants, renewable developers, flexibility providers, policymakers, and consumer representatives.

Because this is the first assessment, the regulator noted that a number of methodological limitations have been identified. Feedback from ACER, the EU Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators, is expected in 2027. That feedback, along with stakeholder input and lessons learned from the first cycle, will contribute to the next assessment, which is due by July 2028.

The assessment will be repeated every two years under the Electricity Regulation.