This report explores the barriers and opportunities associated with scaling up Net Zero investment at the local authority level in the UK. By examining the experiences of Westminster City Council (WCC) and Cumberland Council, we aim to identify context specific opportunities for local Net Zero projects, how to advance investment readiness, and assess the enabling policy environment at the two councils, providing insights for other local authorities seeking to accelerate their transition to Net Zero. We draw on project workshops held with investors and council stakeholders, plus analysis from Energy Systems Catapult and the University of Edinburgh.

Energy Systems Catapult supported the project by outlining business model options to inform the development of an investment prospectus. The business models were chosen based on their potential to address local Net Zero priorities for both localities, identified following the review of supplementary material provided (e.g., Westminster City Council’s Local Area Energy Plan) and through workshop sessions with both councils.