Upskilling and specialist support
Our policy briefing, developed for Innovate UK’s Net Zero Living programme, sets out several ways to build capacity and confidence in the system:
- Training for all planners on energy technologies' policy and planning considerations
- Creation of dedicated renewable energy planners working across regions
- Wider cross-authority collaboration and shared specialist services
- Career development routes and apprenticeships to grow the workforce long-term
Scaling what works
As set out in the paper, many local authorities are already testing collaborative approaches, from regional ecology services to shared infrastructure planning teams. These examples show that progress is possible, but uneven. Targeted support is now needed to scale up what works.
Turning insight into action
Regen will continue to make the case for better-resourced, better-supported planning teams. Through our policy work, planning working group and engagement with national government, we’re pushing for lasting solutions to unlock capacity.
We’re also working with local authorities, developers and wider energy stakeholders to explore practical models for shared services, specialist roles and skills development. And with the right backing, we’re ready to help deliver training that equips planners with the knowledge they need to support the energy transition. If you’re working on these challenges or want to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. You can email me at rwindemer@regen.co.uk.
