UK Power Networks (UKPN) has launched a guide on “future energy” for local authorities, encouraging them to “embrace a low-carbon future”.
The distribution network operator has teamed up with UK100 – a network of local government leaders – to send elected councillors and council finance and sustainability officers the guide.
It aims to show how the move to a decentralised and decarbonised energy system offers new growth and job opportunities to local communities and helps tackle climate change.
In the guide, the company provides tips and information to support local authorities to embrace new technologies – such as electric vehicles – which support the transition to a low-carbon economy and understand how they can play a role in “future energy”.
UKPN smart grid manager Lynne McDonald said: “UKPN wants to help local authorities embrace a low-carbon future and plan to meet rising demand in what is an energy revolution. The way energy is generated, distributed and used is rapidly changing and we want to help local authorities make the most of the opportunities this creates.
“Working alongside UK100 we are doing everything possible to explain to local authorities how they can potentially generate income and save money by adopting new technologies to make the most of local energy in their communities.”
UK100 director Polly Billington added: “More and more local leaders have ambitions to see solar and wind generation power their communities, in a way that saves money and generates income for their local authority, the community and local businesses.
“Electricity generation, battery storage, the arrival of electric vehicles and savvier and smarter ways to heat and power our homes and workplaces will transform our country over the next few years, but local leaders will be crucial to making sure this happens in a way that benefits the people they represent.
“The guide for local government targets all levels of knowledge, from energy officers to the elected councillors getting to grips with rapid change. There is an energy opportunity for local authorities. This guide is designed to help those making the decisions understand more about what that can mean for their community.”