The plan, developed over two years by the Midlands Net Zero Hub, Mott MacDonald, and IES with regional local authorities, integrates eight local area energy plans into a single vision. It provides roadmaps for infrastructure improvements, investment opportunities, and energy-efficient benefits for communities.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, stated that the plan offers a deeper understanding of the region's energy needs. "We can now turn that insight into action," she said. "By bringing partners together, we can develop the projects and investment opportunities needed to help the region reach its net zero ambitions whilst improving life for local people."
The plan identifies the transformation required across buildings, transport, industry, and energy networks. Key measures include installing over 800,000 heat pumps, 940,000 electric vehicle charging points, and more solar panels on public buildings. These could reduce carbon emissions, save residents up to £4.7 billion on energy bills by 2050, and improve air quality, potentially saving £500 million in healthcare costs.
A new Digital Twin, an interactive digital map of the region’s energy system, has also been developed to help local councils identify areas of need, such as poorly insulated homes or fuel poverty, for targeted support and investment.
“"We’re delighted to support the launch of the Regional Area Energy Plan and Digital Twin. Together, these tools will help local authorities make more informed decisions, enabling effective planning for both decarbonisation and future growth."
EMCCA will now work with partners to implement future projects and identify investment opportunities to bring the plans to reality.
