The South Belfast MLA was speaking ahead of an Alliance Assembly motion on Tuesday (24 March), outlining Northern Ireland’s over-reliance on fossil fuels and calling for greater investment in renewable energy as a means to achieve energy security and reduce household bills. 

“From the war in Ukraine, to what we’re seeing now in the Gulf, what’s been made clear is our reliance on fossil fuels is wreaking havoc on our environment, our national security, and the cost of energy, all at the same time,” said Ms Nicholl.

“When the obvious pathway to energy security and cheaper bills is through developing our renewable energy infrastructure, it brings into question why other parties such as the DUP, UUP and TUV wish to roll back our renewable targets and delay progress.=

“For as long as we remain reliant on fossil fuels, households will suffer the consequences. Greener, cheaper energy produced, controlled and regulated here will lower bills for consumers and businesses, and invite even more investment into our economy.

“There can be no more heel-dragging or reluctance to deliver. The Economy Minister must urgently work to deliver a plan to end Northern Ireland’s dependence on planet-killing fossil fuels and deliver a green energy transition.

“We have a choice. Continue to live in fear of global markets spiralling out of control with our hands tied behind our back, or get serious about renewables, grasp control of our own energy supply, lower household energy bills, and break free of the wild west of internationally traded fossil fuels.”