Enable Embed Enact: Maximising the Value of Local Net Zero Planning

Insights for local authorities

Local authorities are central to achieving net zero but, too often, strategies get stuck in the planning phase rather than delivering infrastructure, investment and results. This can be down to a lack of clarity on processes or responsibilities, or the absence of a strong ecosystem of support.

The “Enable Embed Enact” report shows how councils can move from vision to action by adopting one of three roles. The first is Enable which examines how best to support others to act. The second is Embed which explores how to integrate net zero into existing processes and operations. The third is Enact which empowers local authorities to initiate new projects themselves.

The report draws on case studies, frameworks, questions, and tools, to help local leaders see how they can be more effective when they more closely align resources, governance, partnerships, and finances and ensure their plans translate into real world outcomes for their communities.

With reform of energy systems underway, the report concludes that local authorities who clarify their role early, build capacity, and align planning with action will be in the strongest position.

Key findings

• Local net zero plans should anchor around one of three roles for a local authority: enable, embed or enact.
• Aligned leadership, partnerships, finance, and commercial delivery are essential for plans to convert into action.
• The current energy reforms are offering local authorities a key moment to align planning and delivery and scale real-world decarbonisation.