Communities across the UK are being placed at the heart of the country’s net zero ambitions, as the government rolls out its first-ever “Energising Britain” events programme.
Launched on Monday 6th July, the initiative brings together over 500 representatives from local government, business, civil society, education and community leadership to accelerate climate and nature action at a local level. The events aim to ensure that grassroots voices help shape national policy while demonstrating the tangible benefits of transitioning to clean energy.
With the UK facing what is expected to be the third heatwave of the summer, the programme highlights the growing urgency of climate action. Communities are already delivering results, from reducing energy bills through solar installations to improving local environments and air quality.
In Bradford, Minister for Climate Katie White opened the inaugural event at Bradford City FC. Speakers included representatives from the club and Feversham Primary School, both of which have successfully reduced their energy costs by installing rooftop solar panels.
Meanwhile, in Manchester, the focus shifted to engagement and outreach. A panel featuring Liverpool FC, Youth Focus North West and Carbon CO-OP explored how culture, youth voices and community-led initiatives can drive behaviour change and reduce household energy costs.
In Bristol, the programme showcased how local innovation is improving lives. Sessions covered:
- Renewable energy use in live events via the Creative Clean Power Pilot
- Practical electrification projects
- Future energy systems
- Climate communication strategies
Delegates also took part in tours of Bristol Harbour, visiting a large-scale water source heat pump and a floating ecosystem designed to support biodiversity with over 6,000 native plants and trees.
In London and Birmingham, discussions focused on accelerating electrification across homes, transport and public infrastructure. Particular emphasis was placed on connecting climate action with diverse communities, including rural areas, faith groups and the cultural sector.
The events are coordinated by the Local Net Zero Hubs, a national network supporting councils and communities to develop clean energy projects that deliver visible, local benefits. Their role is increasingly critical in bridging national policy and on-the-ground delivery.
Minister for Climate, Katie White, said:
“Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent as our climate changes – from heatwaves in summer to flooding in the winter.
“The need to take climate action has never been clearer, and through our ‘Energising Britain’ events, we’re making sure local communities across the country have their say on climate action and clean, homegrown energy.
“We know government cannot drive this mission alone – by working together with local communities, we can accelerate our work on climate action and clean power to deliver lower bills, good jobs and cleaner air now and for generations to follow.”
For local authorities and public sector leaders, the “Energising Britain” programme signals:
- Increased emphasis on place-based climate delivery
- Growing opportunities for community partnerships and co-production
- A stronger link between net zero policy and cost-of-living benefits
- Continued investment in local energy infrastructure and innovation
As extreme weather events intensify, initiatives like this underline the importance of collaborative, localised approaches to climate resilience and sustainability.
Image credit: iStock
