SSEN helps local authorities on net-zero plans
Distribution Network Operator Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is expanding its support for local authorities by allocating graduates to help them with their net zero plans.
Between now and the early autumn, the SSEN’s graduates will carry out work with teams from six local authorities, following work with net zero engagement specialists from the firm and other support.
SSEN’s LENZA (Local Energy Net Zero Accelerator) tool will also be used to develop Local Area Energy Plans (LAEPs) with the graduates using their work with local authorities to test the tool’s functionality in real-world situations.
Local Area Energy Plans will allow local authorities to lay out the changes and resources for net zero, and assist SSEN effectively plan its network of the future.
SSEN is also encouraging all local authorities to make such plans, and is following through on this call with practical, and proactive support for it.
The local authorities SSEN’s graduates will be working with are Winchester City Council, West Sussex County Council, Wiltshire Council, The Highland Council, Oxford City Council, and Southampton City Council.
Sarah Kerr, SSEN’s Net Zero Engagement Specialists and graduate programme co-ordinator, said:
“Having our graduates supporting local decision-makers in this new way feels like an obvious step to add to the sector-leading work we already do.
“The LENZA tool is vital for providing the information and insights that will support local net zero planning in the near future, and the work our graduates will undertake with local authorities in the weeks to come will provide invaluable opportunities to test and refine this tool.
“This is the first time we’ve offered this particular kind of support, so we’ll be assessing its effectiveness over the coming weeks to see how we can further develop the assistance we offer local authorities in our licence areas.”
Councillor Kelsie Learney, cabinet member for climate emergency at Winchester City Council, said:
“Infrastructure is proving a major barrier to decarbonising our district, whether it’s supplying renewable energy into the grid or powering and heating our homes, vehicles, and workplaces with zero carbon electricity.
“The dedicated resource provided by SSEN through this collaborative pilot project will support the development of our Local Area Energy Plan, helping us plan the strategic improvements which will lead to the Winchester District going greener, faster.”
Image from SSEN