Belfast has rapidly established itself as a destination for environmentally minded property investors, according to John Minnis, founder of one of Northern Ireland’s John Minnis estate agency.
Minnis said that “more and more property buyers are asking not just about location or price, but about the environmental impact of their investment decisions,” as sustainability becomes a defining factor in real estate choices across the UK and Ireland.
Recent figures revealed that 76% of property investors in 2025 said sustainability influenced their investment decisions, with more than a third walking away from opportunities that failed to meet environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria.
Minnis noted that the shift toward greener investments is particularly evident in Northern Ireland, and Belfast is emerging as one of the most attractive regional markets.
“We are seeing a real step-change in investor attitudes,” he said.
“Features like solar panels, insulation, water conservation systems, and the use of sustainable building materials are now high on their wish lists.
“Many are retrofitting existing homes, while others are looking to net-zero and passive house designs for new builds. This eco-focus is no longer a niche – it’s becoming the new normal, and Belfast is incredibly well positioned to benefit.”
A range of local factors are supporting this trend. Belfast’s Local Area Energy Plan prioritises district heating, large-scale retrofits and solar expansion, while over £10m in annual grant funding is available to help building owners improve energy efficiency.
The city’s clean energy infrastructure is also expanding rapidly.
Belfast Harbour has committed over £90m to offshore wind service facilities, complementing the region’s established onshore wind and tidal energy projects.
Together, these investments ensure long-term access to clean and affordable power for developments across the city.
Economically, Belfast remains competitive, with average rental yields around 6% – higher than the UK average.
The combination of affordability, strong capital appreciation potential, and ESG-aligned redevelopment opportunities is attracting both domestic and international investors.
Large-scale regeneration projects, including the Titanic Quarter and new city centre schemes, are creating sustainable mixed-use communities supported by improved transport links and active travel infrastructure.
As sustainability becomes a key determinant of value, properties with strong energy performance or connections to district heating are expected to achieve higher rental incomes and stronger long-term valuations.
Minnis added that Belfast’s growing role within the UK and Ireland’s renewable energy ecosystem, alongside international investor interest, is helping the city “cement its position as one of the most exciting green property markets to watch in 2026.”
