Energy

Sustainable energy planning and management reduces our energy consumption and increases our reliance on renewable energy sources. Over half of the energy consumed in the UK is a result of the construction and operation of buildings, so design has a direct impact on the amount of energy used.

The benefits of sustainable energy planning and management include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, creating and future proofing (in an economic, social, and environmental sense) comfortable, healthy environments and reducing energy bills, leading to enhanced social equity.

Local authorities can support better energy planning and management by valuing reduced energy demand, retrofitting existing buildings and using decentralised energy systems.

Priorities for energy

  • Reduce energy demand
    The first step should be to reduce energy consumption in the built environment through better design and refurbishment and enhance the efficiency with which energy is used.
  • Develop a low carbon and renewable energy portfolio
    The second step is to substitute traditional fuels with low carbon and renewable sources and to integrate them sympathetically into the urban environment.