The Public Accounts Committee at Stormont has warned that key targets in Northern Ireland's energy strategy for 2030 may be missed unless action is accelerated.

The committee's report follows an inquiry into the Department for the Economy's delivery of the net zero strategy, which was published in 2021. The strategy aims for full decarbonisation by 2050 and at least 80% of electricity consumption from renewable sources.

Committee chair Daniel McCrossan said the government has a responsibility to create conditions for investment, otherwise there is a real risk it will go elsewhere. He noted growing frustration among businesses and investors over delays, policy uncertainty, and lack of clarity around delivery.

The committee heard that investment could be diverted to Great Britain, Ireland, or other European markets where conditions are viewed as more certain. Members said it was unacceptable that delays were affecting projects that could support economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen energy security.

McCrossan said almost £124m of public money has been spent on energy-related programmes since 2020, and assurances are needed that Northern Ireland is on track. He said despite wide consultation during strategy development, significant weaknesses have undermined implementation.

Deputy chair Tom Buchanan said the next four years are critical, requiring decisive action, stronger oversight, and a clear focus on results. The report makes 11 recommendations, including publication and regular updating of the department's Energy Policy Statement, and funded plans to address grid, infrastructure, and energy storage constraints.

The committee noted the department's confidence in achieving the strategy's ambition of a £2bn green economy, but stressed the challenge is turning ambition into results so Northern Ireland can realise the investment, jobs, and wider benefits promised by the transition to net zero.