The Northern Ireland Energy Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) will be extended for two years, from 1 April 2027 until 31 March 2029, in continued collaboration with the Department for the Economy (DfE).
The NISEP Framework Document for April 2027 – March 2029 will be published at the end of September 2026, along with a ‘Call for Schemes’.
New break clause
The new NISEP Framework Document for the extension period of April 2027 – March 2029 will include a new break clause which allow the Programme to close after the first year (i.e. year ending 31 March 2028), should the DfE successor scheme, (Domestic Energy Efficiency and Low Carbon Heat Programme) be fully developed.
DfE is currently developing the new scheme and aims to launch in 2027/2028 following a consultation on scheme design planned for later this year.
If the DfE successor scheme is not operational, NISEP will continue for the second year 2028/2029.
At the time of publication, there is no certainty that the extended NISEP programme will run for the full two years, like the previous suite of schemes. If the new break clause is required, notice will be given by the end of September 2027.
How organisations can apply for scheme funding
All organisations eligible to bid for NISEP funding for 2027/2029 will need to complete an interest form in the first instance, which will be issued in September 2026. They will then be contacted by the Programme Administrator (Energy Saving Trust) with further details on how to submit a bid.
The schemes that are successful in obtaining funding will commence in April 2027 and may run for the two years, subject to successful delivery in the first year and subject to the timing of the commencement of the DfE successor scheme.
How to become a Primary Bidder
Any organisation that is not currently registered as a Primary Bidder and wishes to bid for funds from the 2027/2029 NISEP programme should ensure they can meet the eligibility criteria listed in the current 2025/2027 NISEP Framework Document. Please refer to Section 1.4 Registration to become a Primary Bidder.
Organisations not currently registered as a Primary Bidder must complete a Primary Bidder registration form to commence the process as soon as possible (and by no later than 31 July 2026).
The form is submitted to the Programme Administrator at nisep@est.org.uk.
Please note, the eligibility criteria are subject to change. Any changes will be stated in the 2027/2029 Framework Document that will be published in September 2026. The Programme Administrator will advise the applicant of the process after the Primary Bidder Registration form has been submitted.