UK Power Networks has introduced a new toolkit to assist local councils in advancing their clean energy projects.
Dubbed ‘Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition: A toolkit for local authorities’, the initiative is a collaborative effort between UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO) and the local government climate network, UK100.
The toolkit is tailored specifically for elected leaders, cabinet members, and local government officers, providing them with a structured framework to foster innovative clean energy solutions. This comes as local authorities throughout the UK experience an uptick in renewable energy projects and a surge in demand for electric vehicle charge points and other green infrastructure.
Lynne McDonald, Head of Local Net Zero at UK Power Networks’ DSO, explained the toolkit’s purpose, “This new toolkit provides practical information on specifically how UK Power Networks works with local authorities, and it supports local leaders to make informed decisions. Throughout the toolkit, local authorities will find use case studies with examples of projects undertaken by other local authorities and partners on the same journey.
“It also includes a wider look at how the electricity system is changing, who the key stakeholders are, and what support is available from them for the delivery of local net zero. Importantly, there’s practical advice on the opportunities available to finance this work and how a decarbonised energy system can reduce costs.”
Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive of UK100, added, “Local authorities and the communities they serve will be at the heart of the next stage of the transition to a net zero energy system.
“Working in partnership with UK Power Networks’ DSO, we are equipping them with the tools and ideas to shape their response to this change. Developing a comprehensive Local Area Energy Plan is a foundational step. It will enable them to play a bigger role in supporting the local rollout of everything from EV charging to Community Energy. But too many don’t know where to start. We hope to help councils unlock their clean energy ambitions with this toolkit.”
The toolkit also features case studies demonstrating how councils have successfully partnered with DSOs to meet their energy objectives.