An innovative online hub to help Edinburgh realise its net zero emissions ambitions and support government climate change targets has been launched by electricity distributor SP Energy Networks today (16 July).

The free Zero Carbon Communities Tool – available on the SP Energy Networks website and believed to be the first of its kind – brings together information on local renewable energy projects, making it easier than ever for groups to plan and invest in the community energy sector.

The world-leading tool will be used by community groups planning and developing renewable energy projects – helping them decide on the technology, location, scale, governance and management processes that will turn their net zero ambitions into reality. It provides guidance and direction on how to approach each area to overcome potential problems at an early stage and shorten project lead times.

As the UK’s energy is increasingly generated in the communities where it will be used, the Zero Carbon Communities tool will help community groups realise their potential to provide local energy solutions that meet local needs.

Examples of community energy schemes range from the introduction of solar technology through to the introduction of wind turbines. These projects have the potential to build local energy network resilience and boost local green economies while accelerating the transition to net zero emissions.

Guy Jefferson, SP Energy Networks Customer Service Director, said: “Community energy projects have the potential to transform the UK’s energy sector with the introduction of renewable technology specific to the needs of the local area.

“Our new Zero Carbon Communities tool will help organisations in Edinburgh develop and plan their projects effectively and efficiently, allowing them to overcome potential pitfalls and get the right investment in place quicker than ever before. Bespoke local energy solutions will have a key part to play if the UK is going to meet its net zero emissions targets and we’re proud to play our part in making that happen.

“We’re delighted to be leading the way with this industry-leading tool, which quite literally puts the power in people’s hands and supports communities across the country to achieve a better future, quicker.”

The UK’s journey to net zero has made considerable progress with large renewable energy resource potential, strong local community cohesion, well-established third sector guidance and support and sustained government investment.

Nicholas Gubbins, CEO at Community Energy Scotland, said: “The Zero Carbon Communities tool allows us to move to a more tailored energy solution rather than a one size fits all method.

“There’s opportunity for a range of local energy projects which is extremely positive as the electricity network can be tailored for local demand. For example, modern storage heaters can store heat and can measure how much heat is being used and link this to the price a customer pays.

“Ultimately, the tool is great as it allows people to have information on how to move to smarter energy projects more easily.”

SP Energy Networks is committed to helping the country on its journey to recovery from the COVID-19 outbreak and a more sustainable future. Green recovery and investment in renewable energy is at the heart of the country’s economic recovery, providing a driving force that will help drive forward towards net zero ambitions.

The Zero Carbon Communities tool is available at: https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/zero_carbon_communities.aspx