Programme

Panel discussion: Time to LAEP-making localised energy plans a reality

This session will discuss what is the value of developing a local area energy plan (LAEP) to deliver net zero targets more effectively at the regional level while providing answers to the following action areas:

• How do you go about it?
• Long-term vision: energy plans essentials for GB energy.
• Short-term actions: breaking the dream vision into 4–5-year actionable plans

Speakers confirmed:

Fiona Brazill, Head of Proposition for Sustainability and Net Zero, Capita Public Services

Debbie Caldwell , Climate Commissioner, Belfast City Council

George Lee, Project Manager, North East and Yorkshire Net Zero Hub

Chair: Martin George , deputy editor, Local Government Chronicle

Panel discussion: Confronting transport’s biggest challenges – roads and air

With this panel will address the need and challenges for into a future of EV travel and transport planning, and aviation and the opportunities of LGR

• Preparing for the shift to EVs and its challenges.
• Devolution and the future of nation-wide transport planning
• Managing the challenges of an airport

Speakers confirmed:

Mark Fletcher , EV Lead, London Councils

Cllr Jules Crossley , Portfolio Holder Policy, Climate and Sustainability, Rushmoor Borough Council

Miltyanna Antone , Parking policy officer, Lewisham LBC

Chair: Sarah Calkin , editor, Local Government Chronicle

Sponsor showcase

Capita

Net zero councils for zero cost

In this session, we will explore the transformative potential of achieving a net zero carbon for housing stock and local councils without incurring significant capital expenditure. We will cover the principles and practical approaches to attaining net zero carbon emissions; and highlight how freed-up budgets can support improved outcomes for communities; and discuss achieving energy equality and security for zero cost

Speaker confirmed:

Fiona Brazill , Head of Proposition for Sustainability and Net Zero, Capita Public Services

Chair: Martin George , deputy editor, Local Government Chronicle

Sponsor showcase

Leisure Energy

Navigating the transition to net zero

Sharing how decarbonisation can be affordable and decoupling the reliance on PSDS funding.

Mike Worsnop , Strategic Director, Leisure Energy

Chair: Sarah Calkin , editor, Local Government Chronicle

Sponsor showcase

Decarbonising the Public Sector: Insights, Impact and Future Focus

This session will highlight the success of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), which has accelerated decarbonisation across schools, hospitals and civic buildings. We'll share key trends, challenges and lessons learnt from case studies and outline how Salix will continue to support public bodies on their path to net zero.

Speaker confirmed:

Liam Gillard , Senior Programme Manager, Salix Finance

Chair: Martin George , deputy editor, Local Government Chronicle

Panel discussion: Greening the housing stock amidst housing crisis

With panel discussion we will learn to strive the balance between affordability and sustainability, innovative retrofitting solutions, and the importance of place-based approaches to meet local needs.

• Balancing the need for affordable housing with sustainability goals.
• Exploring innovative solutions for retrofitting and green building practices
• Place based retrofit: tailoring plans to meet local needs

Speakers confirmed:

Christopher Hammond, Chief Executive,  UK100

Cllr Scott Patient , Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Climate Action and Housing, Calderdale MBC

Helen Burridge , HCCSP manager, Herts Climate Change & Sustainability Partnership

Victor Equere , Climate Programme Manager, Pendle BC

Chair: Caitlin Webb , head of content, Local Government Chronicle

Panel discussion: Enabling Net Zero-friendly procurement practises

In this session we will inspect sustainable purchasing strategies, policy innovation, and how councils can leverage the Procurement Act 2023 to overcome barriers and embed Net Zero into decision-making.

• Driving sustainable procurement through policy and innovation.
• Overcoming barriers to Net Zero-aligned purchasing decisions.
• How can councils use the Procurement Act 2023?

Speakers confirmed:

Trevor Nicoll , Director of Operations, St Helens Council

Annie Pickering, Operations Director, Climate Emergency UK

Shanika Mahendran , Cabinet Member for Planning and Placemaking, Milton Keynes City Council

Natalie Evans , Head of Responsible Procurement and Supplier Relationship Management, Westminster City Council

Chair: Martin George , deputy editor, Local Government Chronicle

Sponsor showcase

Proving what’s possible for social housing:

Kensa helped transform 81 Edwardian flats in the heart of London—installing networked ground source heat pumps at Clarion Housing Group’s historic Sutton Dwellings estate.

• 70% lower carbon emissions
• Efficient, low-cost heating
• Retrofit success in a dense, urban estate

Speaker confirmed: 

Dr Stuart Gadsden , Commercial Director, Kensa

Chair: Caitlin Webb , head of content, Local Government Chronicle