In a groundbreaking initiative, the green business body Aldersgate Group, trade association RenewableUK, and the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE,) have united to spearhead a transformation in the planning system, crucial for achieving a net-zero energy system in UK. The collaboration aims to explore innovative solutions to reshape policies, enabling the decarbonization of the energy system while safeguarding landscapes, nature, and communities' involvement in decision-making.

Addressing urgency for climate action: the need for swift infrastructure development

With the urgency to combat climate change and achieve net zero, the initiative recognises the imperative need to rapidly decarbonise the energy system. The focus extends beyond wind turbines and solar panels, emphasizing the need for new infrastructure like cables and substations to efficiently deliver green electricity to homes and businesses.

However, the current planning system requires enhancements to expedite progress toward net zero. Meeting ambitious decarbonization targets set by political parties necessitates the rapid construction of new infrastructure. National Grid ESO projections underscore the need to build over five times as many high-voltage transmission lines by 2030 as delivered over the past 30 years.

A collaborative approach: shaping shared principles for transformation

To meet clean energy targets, unlock economic growth, and avoid adverse climate impacts, the collaborative project aims to establish a consensus on shared principles for a revamped system facilitating rapid decarbonization. Recognizing the need for transformational thinking, the project strives to create a planning system that aligns with net-zero goals, safeguards the environment, and allows civil society and communities to exert influence.

The initiative is already underway, with interim findings expected in spring and final recommendations in the autumn.

Voices from the collaborators: commitment to a sustainable future

On the one hand, Roger Mortlock, CEO of CPRE, the countryside charity, emphasised the importance of protecting landscapes and engaging communities in the transition to a net zero energy system. While James Robottom, Head of Policy at RenewableUK, underlined the urgency of a well-resourced and timely planning system to support the rapid development of crucial grid infrastructure.

In addition, Rachel Solomon Williams, Chief Executive of Aldersgate Group, expressed enthusiasm for the project's potential to offer practical steps in the ongoing land use debate.

This collaborative effort represents a pivotal step towards a planning system that not only supports the decarbonization of the grid but also aligns with broader economic, environmental, and community objectives.