What are the opportunities – direct and indirect - for local government and the public sector to invest in renewable energy generation and storage? Focusing on the reduction of  operational carbon emissions in new and existing assets, we explain how Power and Heat Purchase Agreements and Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin work, and how community and local energy vehicles can attract private sector investment.

New generations of heat networks allow us to recover what was once low-value waste heat as an important resource. How do we capture all forms of waste heat, at what scale does energy from waste become feasible, and how do we make it viable and straightforward? What consumer protection is needed?

In this session we will look at the outcomes of the consulted Carbon Offsetting industry guide (to be published February 2021), provide clarity on sustainable ways to offset carbon and demonstrate with case studies.

An exploration and update on clean technologies to replace natural gas, including hydrogen, refined methane injection, synthetic gas and carbon capture.

What is the optimum formula for Zero Carbon residential developments and how can energy costs be managed in an all-electric, fossil fuel-free future?

Though we are more aware of our energy use and carbon footprint than ever, energy performance is still measured one building or holding at a time. Recovery and recycling of heat energy in new developments is similarly restricted. How can secondary heat be shared across buildings, and what changes to planning law will increase energy recycling?

Energy system decarbonisation needs local leadership, engagement and initiative‐taking. Should planning policy rely on local investment to deliver Zero Carbon development? It’s a social process in which local needs are balanced with the energy resources available. Plus how can groups of local authorities provide platforms for large-scale transitions such as gas conversion to hydrogen?