Cornwall & Isles of Scilly LAEP 

City Science was commissioned by Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly Councils to develop their Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP). This initiative marks a significant milestone, as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will become the first UK rural and island region to undertake a comprehensive LAEP process. 

Overview 

City Science was commissioned by Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly Councils to develop their Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP). This initiative marks a significant milestone, as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will become the first UK rural and island region to undertake a comprehensive LAEP process. 

In delivering the Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly LAEP we: 

  1. Built a comprehensive baseline of the region’s current energy landscape 
  2. Developed and model future scenarios for energy demand and supply 
  3. Produced carbon reduction pathways tailored to the unique characteristics of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly 
  4. Formulated a prioritised action plan to support the transition to a decarbonised energy system 
  5. Engaged local communities and stakeholders throughout the planning process 
  6. Aligned local energy strategies with wider regional and national decarbonisation goals 

Local Area Energy Planning is an innovative approach to decarbonising energy systems at a regional level. It involves a detailed analysis of current energy usage, future demand projections, and potential pathways to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. LAEPs provide a strategic framework for local authorities, energy network operators, and other stakeholders to make informed decisions about future energy infrastructure investments and policy interventions. 

The LAEP process considers all aspects of a region’s energy system, including generation, storage, distribution, and consumption across various sectors such as residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation. By taking a holistic view, LAEPs enable communities to identify the most cost-effective and efficient routes to decarbonisation while ensuring energy security and affordability. 

City Science Response 

Our delivery of this LAEP, included: 

  1. Data Consolidation and Analysis: We gathered and analysed comprehensive data on the region’s energy consumption, generation, and infrastructure. This includes information from various sectors such as domestic, commercial, industrial, and transport. The analysis provides a detailed baseline of the current energy landscape in Cornwall and the Isles of Sicilly. 
  2. Future Scenario Modelling: Using advanced modelling techniques, we developed multiple scenarios for future energy demand and supply. These scenarios consider factors such as population growth, economic development and technological advancements. 
  3. Carbon Reduction Pathway Development: Based on the scenario modelling, we created carbon reduction pathways that outline potential routes to achieve net-zero emissions. These pathways consider the unique characteristics of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, including their rural and island geography. 
  4. Stakeholder Engagement: A crucial aspect of this LAEP is our engagement strategy. We established a Residents Energy Panel, comprising a representative group of local community members. This panel, supported by our partners at Copper Consultancy, ensures public engagement and secures local buy-in throughout the planning process. 
  5. Action Plan Formulation: Drawing on the insights from previous work packages, we created a prioritised action plan. This plan will outline specific steps, investments, and policy recommendations to support the region’s transition to a decarbonised energy system. 
  6. Quality Assurance: To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, the University of Exeter provided quality assurance throughout the project. 

Outcome 

We delivered this LAEP in accordance with both the Ofgem Method and the IUK/ESC guidance on creating Local Area Energy Plans. This adherence to national best practices ensures that our approach is robust, comprehensive, and aligned with broader energy transition goals. 

By achieving these objectives, the LAEP will provide a roadmap for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to transition to a low-carbon energy future while maximising economic and social benefits for the region.