The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) continues to play a vital role in improving energy efficiency, tackling fuel poverty and reducing carbon emissions across Northern Ireland. In welcome news for households, businesses and the retrofit sector, the programme has now been extended for a further two years from April 2027 and could continue until March 2029.

What is NISEP?

The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) provides funding to help households and businesses across Northern Ireland improve the energy efficiency of their properties. It supports a range of improvements, from insulation and heating upgrades to other energy-saving measures, helping to reduce energy bills, improve comfort and tackle fuel poverty.

At least 80% of available funding is directed towards vulnerable households, helping those most affected by high energy costs improve the energy performance of their homes.

The programme is overseen by the Utility Regulator and administered by Energy Saving Trust. Funding comes from a Public Service Obligation (PSO), which is a small charge included in electricity bills across Northern Ireland.

Projects are delivered by approved organisations, known as scheme managers, who help homeowners, tenants, landlords, community organisations and businesses access available support.

Eligible measures can include:

Wall and loft insulation
Heating upgrades
Draught proofing
Energy-efficient lighting

Extension Provides Greater Confidence for the Sector

The recent decision by the Utility Regulator to extend NISEP until March 2029 provides greater confidence for households seeking energy efficiency improvements, as well as organisations involved in delivering retrofit projects.

The programme currently provides around £8 million of funding annually to support improvements in homes and commercial properties. However, demand for many schemes remains high, with some operating waiting lists or prioritising applications based on available funding and eligibility.

The extension will help maintain investment in energy-saving measures across Northern Ireland, supporting efforts to reduce carbon emissions and helping residents lower their energy bills. It also offers greater stability for installers, contractors, housing providers and community organisations planning future energy efficiency projects.

Looking Ahead

While NISEP has been extended until March 2029, the Department for the Economy (DfE) is currently developing a replacement scheme, known as the Domestic Energy Efficiency and Low Carbon Heat Programme.

The new scheme is expected to launch in 2027/2028, with a consultation on its design planned for 2026. As a result, the NISEP extension includes a break clause, meaning the programme could close on 31 March 2028 if the replacement scheme is ready. Otherwise, NISEP will continue for another year.

Although the full two-year extension is not guaranteed, NISEP remains an important source of support for energy efficiency improvements across Northern Ireland. By funding measures such as insulation, heating upgrades and energy-saving technologies, the programme helps households and businesses reduce energy consumption, lower bills and cut carbon emissions.

For Retrofit Assessors, Retrofit Coordinators and other professionals working in the sector, the extension also provides opportunities to plan future projects and continue improving the energy performance of properties across Northern Ireland.

Prepare for What's Next at Our Northern Ireland Conference

Join us at the Elmhurst Conference in Northern Ireland on 12 November 2026, where industry experts will explore the latest developments, challenges and opportunities facing the sector. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions, connect with fellow professionals and gain 5 hours of certified CPD.

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