Issue - meetings

RESOLVED that the supported funding for a Local Area Energy Plan for Bolsover District be approved, and delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive Officer to sign the associated MOU on behalf of the Council.

Executive considered a detailed report, presented by the Climate Change Officer, which provided Members with an update on proposals for the creation of a regional Local Area Energy Plan.

The report sought Members approval for acceptance of funded support from the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMMCCA) to ensure the Council was fully included in the region’s Local Area Energy Planning, and also approval of delegated authority to the Chief Executive Officer to allow officers to enter into the associated memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Nottingham County Council to allow the Council to access the support.

A Local Area Energy Plan set out the change required to transition an area’s energy system to ‘net zero’ in a given timeframe. This was achieved by the analysis of data to evaluate the existing situation and future energy demand, then considering a range of technologies and scenarios, which when combined with stakeholder engagement, lead to the identification of a series of preferred options to create the most cost-effective sequenced plan that would systematically reduce the demand for fossil fuel and achieve decarbonisation of the area’s transport, housing, and industry.

Moved by Councillor Anne Clarke and seconded by Councillor John Ritchie

RESOLVED that the supported funding for a Local Area Energy Plan for Bolsover District be approved, and delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive Officer to sign the associated MOU on behalf of the Council.

Reasons for Recommendation

The creation of a Local Energy Area Plan for Bolsover would use data, local information, and stakeholder engagement to create a strategic framework that would support the Council to maximise inward investment in energy infrastructure, renewable energy, and energy systems.

The Local Energy Area Plan would also provide a framework to support the Council to create the conditions for clean and inclusive growth, reduce energy costs for business and residents, and improve the environment.

The cost to the Council of entering the MOU was primarily officer time used in providing information to, and engaging with, the consultants to identify local need and local priorities. The MOU does not otherwise place any unreasonable burdens on the Council or contain any unfair or unreasonable terms.

Consequently, it is recommended that the Executive endorse the acceptance of the supported funding for a Local Area Energy Plan for Bolsover District and approve delegated authority to officers to sign the associated MOU on behalf of the Council.

Alternative Options and Reasons for Rejection

Bolsover District Council could not participate in this research but there would be reputational damage in not supporting this EMMCCA led project. The LAEP would support our development plans and the transition to Net Zero, not entering into the MOU risked BDC undertaking projects and spending inefficiently.

To undertake a LAEP, or a similar plan, including appointing consultants would cost the authority approximately £150K, in addition to the costs of officer time and the procurement process.