Powering Northern Ireland’s energy transition with purpose

As Northern Ireland approaches key milestones on the path to net zero, the energy system is entering one of the most profound and critical transformations in its history. As we move toward a cleaner, more electrified economy, the electricity grid is becoming the backbone of decarbonisation, economic growth and energy security. SONI sits at the heart of that effort.

The road ahead

As Northern Ireland’s independent electricity Transmission System Operator, SONI runs the power system safely and securely every second of every day. SONI does not generate electricity, nor does it sell it. Its job is to balance consumer demand for electricity in real time and move electricity, via the high-voltage network, from where it is generated to where it is needed right across Northern Ireland.

In parallel, SONI has the crucial responsibility of planning the electricity grid to meet Northern Ireland’s future clean energy needs and upgrading the transmission network so more renewable electricity can flow to where it is needed.

The level of transformation required is unprecedented in scale, complexity and pace but progress is already measurable.

Northern Ireland has been one of the first regions in the world to have 75% of electricity flowing through the grid at any moment coming from renewable sources. As a region, we have ambitious collective targets to achieve 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. To put this in perspective, electricity demand in Northern Ireland is anticipated to potentially double or even triple by 2050, driven by population growth, economic expansion, and crucially, the electrification of transport and heating.

Operationally, keeping the power flowing safely and securely remains our first responsibility. Every second, our control room teams balance electricity from conventional generation, wind, solar and emerging technologies, ensuring voltage and frequency remain within tight limits. As renewable generation continues to grow, the system becomes more dynamic and less predictable. SONI is working closely with partners from across the industry, including NIE Networks, the gas TSOs, and the Utility Regulator to transform how the system is operated while maintaining the high standards of security consumers expect.

One of the most pressing and defining challenges we face is managing the volume of new connection requests from renewable generators, storage providers and growing demand customers. Managing this surge in interest while maintaining system stability requires a more strategic, plan-led approach to grid development. SONI is working closely with industry partners, with government and the Utility Regulator to reform processes, reduce delivery timescales and provide clearer signals to investors, while ensuring value for money for consumers.

SONI’s approach, which is embedded in our Strategy 2025–2031, is built around four key pillars: Advise, Plan, Operate, Deliver. In simple terms, that translates as evidence-led advice; clear deliverable pathways; secure operation; and infrastructure that unlocks renewable integration and helps deliver our collective targets.

Working together

We realise the importance of true collaboration, and working in partnership is fundamental to achieving our shared goals.

Crucially, the energy transition cannot be delivered by any single organisation. A whole-system, whole society approach is essential. Electricity, gas, markets, policy and consumer behaviour are increasingly interconnected. Collaboration with partners across government, regulation, industry, landowners and communities underpins everything we do. Through initiatives such as long-term energy scenarios and clear system roadmaps, we provide robust, independent evidence to support informed decision-making and coordinated investment.

Engagement is a vital part of this partnership approach. By engaging early, listening carefully, adapting and accelerating plans where possible, we aim to build trust and ensure the benefits of the transition are shared.

With the right collaboration, investment and shared commitment across the whole energy system, coupled with a whole society effort, it’s a journey we can make successfully together.

Building the future, together

We are at a defining moment in Northern Ireland.

We are on a journey to a net zero electricity system which is ambitious and transformative, presenting a powerful opportunity to strengthen energy security, attract investment and deliver a cleaner, more affordable energy future. Through technical expertise, collaboration and a shared sense of purpose, SONI is focused on keeping the lights on today while building the electricity system Northern Ireland will rely on for generations to come.

Alan Campbell
Chief Executive
SONI