UK Government Extends Electricity Cost Reduction Scheme to Northern Ireland
The UK government has announced the extension of a scheme designed to reduce electricity costs for manufacturing businesses to Northern Ireland. Previously, the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) was only available in Great Britain, which placed Northern Ireland firms at a competitive disadvantage due to different electricity market regulations. The scheme aims to cut policy costs, primarily environmental levies, from electricity bills, potentially reducing them by up to 25% for qualifying businesses. The UK government will provide funding to Northern Ireland's Stormont to develop a local version of the scheme. This move follows Stormont ministers' approval of additional funds to expand a support package for households using home heating oil. Secretary of State Benn expressed satisfaction that resources were found for Northern Ireland, emphasizing ongoing engagement with Northern Ireland ministers to support those most affected by energy costs. 
