Business responses to changes in a government incentivized green energy program

What is it about?

The Northern Ireland government launched a green energy incentive program called the Renewable Heat Incentive. The program had flaws that were ignored. Changes to the program were not enough to stop the scandal that ultimately lead to the elected government's collapse. Business customers were portrayed in the media as scapegoats for the issues. This paper explores the institutional breaches that lead to the scheme issues and eventual government collapse. It follows with a look at how business customers responded.

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Photo by Tyler Casey on Unsplash

Photo by Tyler Casey on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Government lead green energy programs are increasingly popular. This case study shows how flaws and coverups can ruin a program and the idea of green energy in a region. Customers that signed up in good faith were left exposed when the scheme collapsed. We show how all the parts interacted to lead to the final outcome.