An evidence-based roadmap for a regional clean energy transition
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Project NameNN2NZ: North Northamptonshire to Net Zero
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RoleProject lead; analysis, methodology, stakeholder engagement and roadmap development
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PartnersCranfield University (carbon assessment methodology validation)
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Funded ByUK Government Community Renewal Fund
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LocationNorth Northamptonshire
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TimescaleTwelve-month programme (2021–2022)
The Challenge
Translating national clean energy ambitions into credible, costed local action is far harder than it looks. Without rigorous analysis of what’s feasible – sector by sector, initiative by initiative – regional strategies risk being aspirational on paper but undeliverable in practice. North Northamptonshire needed a plan grounded in real data, genuine stakeholder realities and an honest assessment of cost and risk.
What we did
Electric Places led a twelve-month programme funded by the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund to develop a practical, risk-adjusted roadmap for North Northamptonshire’s transition to a low-carbon economy. We assessed over 15,000 existing and potential projects across transport, buildings, energy, commerce and industry, food, farming and forestry; and recommended the most practical, cost-effective pathway. Our carbon assessment methodology was tested and triangulated with Cranfield University and leading subject-matter experts, producing 17 in-depth reports and feasibility studies. We also surveyed 1,281 people and organisations – from local SMEs to Tata’s Corby Steelworks – on their likely uptake of different initiatives, using the findings to refine our approach to behaviour change and programme design.
Outcomes
The programme produced a full recommended roadmap with costs and timings for each sector, alongside a governance recommendation for a coordinating body – the 2NZ body – to manage implementation. It stands as a practical, replicable template for regional clean energy transition planning.