A first-of-its-kind solution has been unveiled after research carried out by the North West’s power network operator revealed barriers to local authorities planning for a green future.

SP Electricity North West, who own and manage the region’s power network, has created Empower, a specialist training programme which focuses on educating and helping authorities plan their green growth journey.

More than 16 local and combined authorities took part in the research which revealed issues for local authorities that are working on Local Area Energy Plans (LAEPs) of which they believe SP Electricity North West can assist with.

To help break down the barriers, SP Electricity North West in conjunction with Manchester-based sustainability consultancy Green Economy,  will now pilot the programme alongside from representatives from Lancashire, Cumbria and Manchester councils with a focus on three main topics: energy literacy, building an LAEP and delivering an LAEP.  

SP Electricity North West stakeholder engagement manager, Lynn Tracey, who is overseeing the pilot, said: “We’ve carried out extensive research with stakeholders and taken on board their feedback.

“The energy system and how it works can be complex and that’s why our stakeholders’ feedback has helped shape our new, innovative training programme.

“The aim will be to break down the barriers and simplify all things energy and LAEPS. All of this work fits in to our socially-led  distribution system operation (DSO) programme which has been designed to ensure our communities benefit from an inclusive energy transition and nobody is left behind.”

The one-month pilot programme is suitable for all North West authorities who are working on their LAEPs, regardless of their progress.

The three-part programme includes in-person and online sessions which will go into detail on:

• An introduction to Energy Literacy (90 minutes, online): On-demand foundational training covering energy networks, distribution network operation roles, key technologies, and interpreting high-level energy data. Designed to build baseline understanding and support senior buy-in.
• Build Your LAEP (one day, in-person): Practical training for authorities developing a LAEP, including use of templates, spatial data, cost modelling, and action planning to improve coordination and viability.
• Deliver your LAEP (one day, in-person): Focused on implementation, strengthening investment cases, updating LAEPs with current data, stakeholder engagement, and project/site appraisal to unlock funding and accelerate delivery.

Participants can take part in one, two or all three of the programme’s sessions while gaining access to resources and practical tools that extend beyond the training.

SP Electricity North West and Green Economy have committed to providing ongoing technical and non-technical support to ensure all local and combined authorities across the region are equipped to take meaningful action with their LAEPs.

Catriona Watson, programme manager at Green Economy added: “Local Area Energy Plans are absolutely essential to secure our communities against rising costs and energy insecurity, and the tools are there to make this happen.

“This programme equips local authorities and supports SP Electricity North West’s DSO to drive energy security forward. We’re looking for your input to shape the future of this programme as it expands, so everyone who takes part can help develop the next stages of the training.”

Once the pilot is complete, SP Electricity North West will look to role the programme out across its operating region.

For more information about the programme please visit enwl.co.uk/local-authorities