The Centre for Climate Engagement (CCE) responded to a consultation led by the National Energy System Operator (NESO) on its proposed Regional Energy Strategic Plan (RESP) methodology.
This consultation invited stakeholder views on the methodology for developing 11 Regional Energy Strategic Plans across Scotland, Wales and nine English regions. The plans are intended to integrate electricity, gas and hydrogen systems to support a net zero future. Building on earlier Ofgem consultations on the RESP policy framework, licence changes and impact assessment, and aiming to create a coherent, place-based approach to energy planning and investment.
In its response, CCE welcomed the ambition to provide structured support to local actors but raised concerns about whether the proposed engagement approach would meaningfully reach and benefit all local authorities. CCE highlighted the risk that time- and capacity-constrained councils, particularly those with fewer resources, could be excluded if engagement relies on self-selection or passive communication.
CCE also explored the proposed governance arrangements in detail, focusing on the design and operation of Strategic Boards and working groups. The response emphasised the need for flexible, transparent governance that recognises the complexities of political and officer representation over a long planning horizon. Overall, CCE stressed that inclusive engagement, adaptability and openness are essential to ensuring RESPs are credible, equitable and effective.
Dr Karen Barrass, Senior Policy Researcher at CCE, said:
“For Regional Energy Strategic Plans to succeed, they must be grounded in a realistic understanding of how local authorities actually function – including the time pressures, capacity constraints and decision-making timeframes they operate within. Designing a process that works over the long term, and that is resilient to political change and independent of party politics, is essential if RESPs are to deliver credible, inclusive and lasting energy system transformation.”
This response builds on CCE’s wider policy work with local authorities, supporting them to navigate complex climate and energy decisions within real-world governance, capacity and political constraints. Through this work, CCE has focused on developing a practical toolkit designed to help local authorities effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions while aligning with national climate change objectives and accounting and reporting protocols.
Read more about our work on Locally Determined Contributions.
Find out more about the RESP Methodology consultation.