Empower - Upskilling for local energy planning

Empower - upskilling local energy planning training

Enabling local authorities to develop and deliver Local Area Energy Plans (LAEPs).

Empower: Upskilling for local energy planning, is a new training course designed to support local authority teams with delivery of LAEPs that will secure energy for the communities they serve.

The training provided by SP ENWL and Green Economy, is tailored to navigate specific local barriers to developing and implementing LAEPs, whilst addressing common knowledge gaps to build confidence and understanding of the wider energy industry. This will include:

technological solutions for your region
understanding energy supply & demand
building and implementing the LAEP
demonstrating its value to engage and influence stakeholders.

Participants will gain access to resources and practical tools that extend beyond the initial training, with ongoing technical and non-technical support to ensure you are equipped to take meaningful action on your energy plans.

This innovative programme is launching with a pilot, suitable for local authorities in the North West of England, regardless of their current progress. We are looking for participants to help shape the future of the programme, by completing post-event analysis that will develop the course.

Accessing Empower training

Specific knowledge gaps will be addressed in order to build confidence and understanding of the wider energy industry. The 3-part programme will include:

An introduction to Energy Literacy (90 minutes, online): On-demand foundational training covering energy networks, Distribution Network Operator roles, key technologies, and interpreting high-level energy data. Designed to build baseline understanding and support senior buy-in.
Build Your LAEP (one day, in-person): Practical training for authorities developing a LAEP, including use of templates, spatial data, cost modelling, and action planning to improve coordination and viability.
Deliver Your LAEP (one day, in-person): Focused on implementation, strengthening investment cases, updating LAEPs with current data, stakeholder engagement, and project/site appraisal to unlock funding and accelerate delivery.

Training is provided via on-demand course content and in person courses.
To gain access to the E-Learning, visit Green Economy training and create a profile.
Please use your local authority email address.
To sign up to the in person workshops, please email Catriona at Green Economy.

Eligibility criteria

Empower: Upskilling for local energy planning training is designed for local authority colleagues focused on environment, economic development and planning. Participants that don't work for a local authority will not be able to access the course.

To access the course visit our training platform to create or sign in to your account.

Click here

Delivered in partnership by: