New Toolkit Empowers Local Authorities to Drive Clean Energy Ambitions

Key Points:

1. A new toolkit, “Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition”, has been launched to help local authorities accelerate their clean energy projects.
2. Developed by UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO) in partnership with UK100, this toolkit is designed for local leaders, cabinet members, and officers.
3. The toolkit provides practical guidance, case studies, and advice on financing clean energy initiatives, helping councils collaborate with peers and stakeholders.
4. It empowers local authorities to implement renewable energy projects, expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, and contribute to the UK’s Net Zero goals.
5. Local councils can use the toolkit to create comprehensive Local Area Energy Plans, fostering a larger role in supporting community energy projects and EV rollout.

A groundbreaking toolkit has been launched to equip local authorities with the essential knowledge and resources to accelerate their clean energy projects. Developed through a partnership between UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO) and UK100, the local government climate network, the toolkit titled “Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition: A Toolkit for Local Authorities” is designed for elected leaders, cabinet members, and officers.

Download the toolkit.

The Need for Clean Energy Solutions

Local authorities across the UK are already witnessing the rise of renewable energy projects, growing demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, and other green energy initiatives. However, implementing these solutions on a large scale requires more than ambition—it requires practical guidance and collaboration. This new toolkit enables local councils to exchange insights with peers, explore successful case studies, and implement innovative energy solutions.

A Roadmap to Local Net Zero

Lynne McDonald, Head of Local Net Zero at UK Power Networks’ DSO, emphasized the toolkit’s practical value:
“This toolkit provides crucial information on how UK Power Networks works with local authorities. It supports local leaders in making informed decisions by offering case studies, showcasing energy system changes, identifying key stakeholders, and outlining available support. Additionally, it provides advice on financing opportunities and highlights how a decarbonized energy system can reduce costs.”

Local authorities can now better collaborate with distribution system operators (DSOs) to drive clean energy projects, from expanding EV charging networks to supporting renewable energy infrastructure. The toolkit provides a clear framework to help councils across the UK implement these initiatives efficiently.

Empowering Local Councils to Lead the Net Zero Transition

Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive of UK100, reinforced the toolkit’s role in supporting local councils:
“Local authorities and the communities they serve are at the heart of the transition to a Net Zero energy system. Our partnership with UK Power Networks’ DSO equips them with the tools to shape their response to this transition. Developing a comprehensive Local Area Energy Plan is essential for councils to play a bigger role in the local rollout of everything from EV charging to community energy.”

Hammond also stressed that many local authorities are eager to contribute to the UK’s energy transition but often don’t know where to begin. This toolkit aims to solve that problem by providing a clear pathway for councils to unlock their clean energy ambitions.

Key Features of the Toolkit

The Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition toolkit offers several key features to support local authorities:

• Practical Guidance: Clear steps for collaboration between local authorities and DSOs to ensure clean energy projects are achievable and impactful.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples of successful projects from councils that have partnered with DSOs.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Insight into how the electricity system is evolving and who the key stakeholders are.
• Funding Opportunities: Information on financing options to help councils fund their Net Zero initiatives.

The Future of Local Energy Leadership

The introduction of this toolkit signifies a critical step forward for local authorities, empowering them to lead the Net Zero transition. With the practical support and case studies provided, local leaders can take bold steps toward clean energy solutions that benefit both their communities and the environment.

By adopting innovative approaches and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders, local authorities have the potential to reshape the energy landscape on both a local and national level. As the demand for renewable energy and EV infrastructure grows, councils now have the tools they need to meet these challenges head-on.

For more information on the Navigating the Net Zero Energy Transition toolkit and how local authorities can use it to advance their clean energy goals, visit UK Power Networks and UK100’s websites.

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Tolga Aramaz

Director at Learn Trade Skills | + posts

Tolga Aramaz is the Director of Learn Trade Skills (LTS), a family-run training centre specialising in electrical installations. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the electrical industry, Tolga is known for their exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering outstanding results. They provide valuable insights and guidance to electricians, contractors, and businesses, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety protocols. Through engaging training programmes and consultancy services, Tolga empowers professionals to excel in their roles, fostering long-term relationships built on professionalism and customer satisfaction.

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