Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP)

As part of a regional East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) scheme, the Council has received a Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP).  A regional launch event is planned later in 2026 when the full report will become publicly available.

The following aims to provide you with some background information about what this work is for and how it will help to reduce carbon emissions across the Borough. 

What is a Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP)?

The Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) for Gedling, Broxtowe, and Rushcliffe is a strategic initiative aimed at supporting the region's transition to net zero emissions (reducing carbon emissions as close to zero as possible). This plan, developed by Mott MacDonald in partnership with IES Consulting Services adopts a bottom-up, data-driven, whole-system approach that integrates technical evidence, stakeholder engagement, and non-technical factors to create a comprehensive plan tailored to the unique characteristics of all three areas.

What is the primary goal of LAEP?

To identify the most cost-effective ways to decarbonise Gedling, Broxtowe, and Rushcliffe councils, aligning local plans and priorities with broader regional, East Midlands Combined County Authority ambitions, as well as national policies and strategies. The plan will consider various aspects including energy supply and demand, transport, buildings, local industry, and the environment.

What methodology is used?

The LAEP follows the methodology developed by the Local Area Energy Plans (LAEP) | Energy Systems Catapult (Opens new window).   It involves exploring potential pathways and considering a range of technologies and scenarios, which, when combined with stakeholder engagement, leads to the identification of the most cost-effective preferred pathway and sequenced plan of proposed actions to achieve the area's net zero goals.

What are the key outcomes of the LAEP?

Key outcomes of the LAEP include mapping decarbonisation scenarios, identifying the most cost-effective preferred route and sequenced plan of proposed actions, and creating a Digital Twin Model ( a virtual model) to support key actions such as large-scale retrofit, renewable energy, and EV charging strategies.

What is the role of stakeholders?

Stakeholder engagement is a vital part of the LAEP's success. The project team will work with two different groups of stakeholders identified  from across all three borough councils and the wider area to gather insights, refine future plans, and ensure meaningful involvement throughout the LAEP development process. This engagement will help increase stakeholders' understanding of the LAEP process, develop trust and buy-in, and identify opportunities and constraints that will improve the deliverability of the plan.