Guest comment by Andrew Wainwright at Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks. 

Andrew Wainwright, from SSEN Distribution, sheds light on why local insights are essential and how initiatives such as Local Area Energy Planning (LAEPs) and the Local Energy Net Zero Accelerator (LENZA) are helping to make a difference.

Understanding the local perspective

For years, energy planning was a top-down exercise. It was the job of networks to operate and maintain the grid. However, the task that the energy industry now has is very different. We’ve entered a period of unprecedented expansion as we deliver networks to enable local growth and an effective transition to Net Zero. Our approach to planning must evolve and it must be bottom up so that we are fully understanding of, and building for, local wants and needs.

We’re refining our approach every year, and stakeholder engagement is vital to help us better understand how to evolve our networks to support the energy transition.

Beyond lower bills: Why the public should care

Energy planning isn’t just about keeping bills low  it’s about ensuring a resilient and efficient network that meets future demands and supports economic growth. While some people actively push for more sustainable energy solutions, others may not yet see the direct benefits. That’s why the industry must work to simplify complex concepts, making them more accessible to local authorities and the communities we serve.

Accelerating change with local tools

LENZA is our visualisation platform which supports local areas in smart energy planning. Meanwhile, creating LAEPs is proving to be a game-changer, helping local authorities plan more effectively. This approach enables authorities to develop case studies, secure funding for community projects, and integrate local energy generation into broader networks. We’re seeing authorities use these tools to justify investment in decarbonisation projects.

The value of LAEP

LAEPs provide critical data that helps SSEN plan for future energy needs. They offer a structured way to collect information, reducing the risk of inefficient investments. These plans are helping us build strong cases for regulatory funding, especially if digitised, they also streamline data collection, reducing the need for manual processing.

Addressing grid constraints

One of the biggest questions is this: why can’t the grid simply plug in new energy sources? The reality is that the current infrastructure has limitations, which are put in place to ensure its safe, reliable operation. Balancing demand, investment, and consumer flexibility is key to ensuring a stable and cost-effective energy supply.

The urgency of now

With only about 25 years left to meet Net Zero targets, the energy industry is accelerating its efforts. We’re on a critical path, Planning, developing, and delivering the networks needed for Net Zero must happen now.

The road ahead

The goal for the next year is clear: to showcase successful examples of LAEP and LENZA in action, to align industry messaging on the RESP, and ensure local authorities become advocates for these tools. By working together, we can ensure all communities, regardless of their resources, can actively contribute to the energy transition.

As energy moves from a niche industry consideration to a high-profile public topic, engaging at the local level will be essential to delivering a more sustainable and inclusive future.