Overview

The Sustainable Energy (Local Plans) Bill aims to boost sustainable energy initiatives in England and Wales. It mandates the creation and publication of sustainable energy plans by specified bodies, promoting energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and tackling fuel poverty, all while contributing to national carbon reduction targets.

Description

This bill requires specific bodies (primarily regional development agencies and principal councils) to create and publish sustainable energy plans. These plans must detail steps to improve energy efficiency in buildings, promote microgeneration and renewable energy, utilize local biomass sources, and specify the resulting carbon reductions. Annual carbon budgets are also required.

If a sufficient number of electors petition for a plan (at least 5% for principal councils and regional development agencies, or a percentage set by the Secretary of State for other specified bodies), the publication of a plan becomes mandatory.

Principal councils can request new functions or propose transferring functions to other entities to better achieve the bill's aims. The Secretary of State must respond within 6 months, and their decisions will be publicly reported annually. The Secretary of State must also provide resources to implement cost-effective measures within the plans.

Significant public involvement is mandated, including consultation with interested parties and the establishment of local representative panels, including members from under-represented groups and parish councils where applicable. Existing guidance on public involvement may be adopted.

Government Spending

The bill requires the Secretary of State to provide resources for implementing cost-effective measures outlined in the plans. The exact financial implications are not specified in the bill text provided, but it will involve additional government spending to fund these initiatives and any function transfers.

Groups Affected

• Regional development agencies and principal councils: These bodies are directly responsible for creating and implementing sustainable energy plans, potentially increasing their workload and resource needs.
• Local residents and communities: Public involvement is crucial, and local communities will have opportunities to influence the plans and participate in their implementation.
• Businesses: Businesses involved in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and biomass may benefit from increased demand for their goods and services.
• The Secretary of State: They have significant responsibilities regarding resource allocation, approving plan amendments and function transfers and creating regulations and reporting.
• Under-represented groups: The bill specifically aims to include these groups in the planning process.

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