Somerset Council has commissioned Regen to develop a Somerset Wide Energy Plan over 7-8 months, covering all of the geographic area of Somerset. This project will address the Somerset Climate Emergency Strategy’s commitment to develop an energy strategy, which follows three key objectives:
- To decarbonise Local Authorities, the wider public estates and reduce our carbon footprint.
- To work towards making Somerset a Carbon Neutral County by 2030.
- To have a Somerset which is prepared for, and resilient to, the impacts of Climate Change.
The project involves several work packages, including a GIS database of renewable energy opportunities, an assessment of the Somerset energy system and associated emissions, analysis of council-owned assets and locally owned renewable generation to benchmark against targets.
The second phase of work will deliver an energy roadmap to reach net zero carbon goals out to 2030, 2040 and 2050. A review of policy commitments will inform the development of a strategic low carbon energy pathway that utilises local opportunity to reduce emissions in line with the council’s ambitious goals.
The project also includes an economic benefits assessment that will identify investment projects and establish an evidence base for future partnerships and funding opportunities.
