London publishes guide to local energy production

A number of Energy Services Companies, as they are known, have been established in Europe to provide more sustainable energy from localised sources, be that traditional renewables or, more commonly, highly efficient combined heat and power plants.

These ESCOs are, in essence, the energy world’s equivalent to buying local produce and seek to re-connect the public with where their energy comes from whilst taking advantage of the environmental benefits.

Early pioneers of concept experienced a painful climb up the learning curve in identifying the suitable legislative, regulatory and commercial environment that they needed to work in.

The launch of this /report marks the first time that a document has gathered together all the knowledge in one place as well as giving a helpful overview of existing ESCOs in the UK and internationally.

London’s Climate Change Action Plan, which was launched last week, detailed the Mayor’s aim to move a quarter of London’s energy supply off the National Grid and on to more efficient, local energy systems by 2025.

The Energy Action Areas and the increased use of Energy Service Companies are key tools in reducing carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2025 as outlined in the Mayor’s Plan.

“Delivering decentralised energy in London is one of the key aims outlined in my Climate Change Action Plan,” said Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London.

“I am delighted that the London Energy Partnership, working through the Energy Action Areas, has produced such a useful and comprehensive report, which will help to drive the market for Energy Service Companies in London.

“Such documents encourage others and provide them with the understanding to begin to deliver sustainable energy in their own communities. The London Energy Service Company stands as a great example for others to follow and London once again is showing by doing”.

Greenpeace executive director John Sauven said: “This report is another positive step forward in realising the decentralised energy vision that represents the real solution to the challenges of climate change and energy security.

“Energy Service Companies are an integral part of that vision, capable of unlocking immense savings of money and energy, not only in London but across the whole UK economy.

“This report not only demonstrates how to go about providing energy services that can tackle fuel poverty and community energy bills, but how to slash emissions and lead the way in tackling climate change”.

Sam Bond