Energy Market

What is market opening?

European Union legislation was implemented in 2007 which meant that consumers could have a choice of natural gas and electricity suppliers.

In January 2007, the domestic natural gas market in the Greater Belfast and Larne area was opened to competition. However the natural gas market available in Antrim, Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon, Newry, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Coleraine, Limavady and Derry is not opened for competition as Firmus energy holds an exclusive supplier licence in these areas.

On 1 November 2007, the domestic electricity market was also opened to allow competition.


Can I switch now that the market is open?

No, domestic natural gas and electricity consumers cannot switch supplier in Northern Ireland.

While the domestic electricity market and domestic natural gas market in Greater Belfast and Larne are now open for competition, to date Phoenix Natural Gas and NIE Energy are the only domestic suppliers. No other company has entered the domestic market to offer an alternative supply.  We hope that new companies will enter the market and when this happens you will have a choice of supplier.

What is the single electricity market?

The single electricity market (SEM) went live on 1 November 2007. It has joined the wholesale electricity markets of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland together.  It will transform how electricity is traded between generators and supply companies on the island of Ireland. It came about   through an intensive partnership process involving both Governments, Regulators, Suppliers and other key players on both sides of the border.

Will I benefit from the SEM?

The SEM should bring lower prices, more competition and a secure supply of electricity to consumers both North and South of the border. However, it is not likely that these benefits will be enjoyed in the short term, but rather in the longer term.  

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