Member

To finish, local area energy plans are crucial to a joined-up systems view of the energy transition, ensuring that we have the view from the ground to inform the national plan, and to have a properly joined-up view of energy systems governance—from local plans through to regional plans, right up to the strategic spatial energy plan to govern the system at a national level. In accepting this amendment, the Government would demonstrate their buy-in to the process and take a critical first step. By providing guidance, they could start to ensure that a coherent set of plans are being developed by local authorities. A funded programme and a technical adviser to ensure consistency and join-up could follow. This is a great opportunity for the Government to get energy planning moving at a local level and ensure coherence and systems join-up. I look forward to working with the Minister and the noble Earl on this.