The Energy Prices Act 2022 (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2026
Extended the period for exercising Northern Ireland energy price powers from 26 months to 6 years.
These Regulations extend the timeframe during which certain ministerial powers under the Energy Prices Act 2022 can be exercised in Northern Ireland.
Specifically, it amends Schedule 5 of the Act to change the period of 26 months to 6 years, calculated from when the First Minister and deputy First Minister first held office. This extension applies to the Secretary of State's ability to act in relation to energy price support and regulation within the Northern Ireland jurisdiction.
Arguments For
The instrument states that the original 26-month period for exercising specific powers under the Energy Prices Act 2022 needs to be extended to 6 years.
The order is issued under powers granted by the Energy Prices Act 2022, which requires Parliamentary approval for such extensions.
The explanatory note indicates that the change is intended to maintain the availability of these powers during the specified period where the First Minister and deputy First Minister hold office.
Arguments Against
Legal commentators might note that extending the duration of executive powers reduces the frequency of legislative review for those specific authorities.
Parties affected by energy price regulations in Northern Ireland may express concern over the lack of a full impact assessment, although the government asserts no significant impact is foreseen.
Citation, commencement and extent
- -(1) These Regulations may be cited as the Energy Prices Act 2022 (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2026 and come into force on the day after the day on which they are made.
- (2) These Regulations extend to Northern Ireland only.
This section establishes the official name of the regulations and sets the commencement date as 20 June 2026.
It restricts the legal application of these rules exclusively to Northern Ireland.
Amendment to the period in paragraph 7(1)(a) of Schedule 5 to the Energy Prices Act 2022
- In paragraph 7(1)(a) of Schedule 5 to the Energy Prices Act 2022( 2 ) (the period in which certain powers in respect of Northern Ireland may be exercised) for '26 months' substitute '6 years'.
This section modifies the Energy Prices Act 2022 by lengthening the duration of certain regulatory powers.
It replaces the existing 26-month limit with a new 6-year limit for the exercise of specific energy-related authorities in Northern Ireland.
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