NI Water has completed the second phase of a major solar scheme at five sites in Antrim, Ballymena, Magilligan, Derg, and Killyhevlin. These new installations, along with panels added last year, are helping the company reach its target of becoming a net-zero business. The initiative is expected to reduce carbon emissions by around c.250 tonnes by March 2026.

The project is supported by c.£3 million funding from the Department for the Economy’s Energy Invest to Save initiative. To date, NI Water has installed nearly 5,000 solar panels with a combined capacity of c.2.2 Megawatt (MW) of power across eight sites. These panels can generate enough electricity to power about 815 homes, which will be used on-site to reduce pressure on the main power grid.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said, “Being here at Antrim Wastewater Treatment Works has given me the opportunity to see firsthand the progress of the second phase of solar installations which NI Water has rolled out across five sites. 

“I commend NI Water on this work to reduce their carbon footprint by working towards more clean electricity. This initiative has also been supported by the Department for the Economy and demonstrates what can be achieved as we all work together to tackle the climate crisis.” 

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said, “NI Water’s solar scheme is one of over 160 funded by the Department for the Economy under its ‘Energy Invest to Save’ initiative which has supported schools, libraries, and hospitals to reduce their energy costs. This project showcases the strength of collaborative government action in delivering on the Executive’s Energy Strategy. Ongoing strategic investment in renewable energy across the government estate will enhance our energy security, drive economic growth, support high quality jobs, and will deliver lasting benefits for communities across the north.”

Dr Sara Venning, CEO NI Water said, "We're delighted to reach this milestone, which is a major step toward our climate goals. As Northern Ireland's largest electricity user, we are constantly seeking new ways to decarbonise our power and benefit the local economy. 

“By continuing to innovate, we are not only reducing our reliance on the electricity grid but also ensuring greater cost resilience in our operations. We are exploring further solar investment opportunities at energy intensive sites in collaboration with our partners to continue our transformation journey.”

Ends

Media enquiries to the NI Water Press Office via email to press.office@niwater.com

For further information please visit: www.niwater.com/climatechange

Notes to editors

• NI Water aims to double its existing 8MW of solar generation by the end of the Price Control Period 2021 - 2027.
• NI Water is committed to achieving net zero for all emissions by 2040 and net zero for the energy it uses by 2030.
• NI Water appointed main contractor GEDA Construction to complete the three solar installations in Phase 1. Solar PV Contractors Solmatix and Future Renewables have completed Phase 2.
• c.250 tonnes of carbon has been calculated using;
• Year 24/25 1Kg/0.22929 kgCO2/KWh = 4.36 kWh
• Year 25/26 1Kg/0.13273 kgCO2/kWh = 7.54 kWh
• 4,893 x 450 watt (average) solar panels (c. 2.2 MWp) connected through 28 x solar inverters.
• As part of the Price Control 2021 – 2027 NI Water’s solar initiative is supported by funding from the Department for the Economy’s (DfE) Energy Invest to Save initiative.