Industrial energy modelling for Net Zero planning

Net Zero Go says:

These reports show that most commercial and industrial emissions across the Midlands can be reduced through electrification of heating, transport, and industrial processes. The studies found that around 60% of industrial and commercial energy demand still comes from fossil fuels, with manufacturing and logistics accounting for the largest share of energy use. Common barriers include electricity network constraints, high electricity costs, and the challenge of electrifying HGV fleets, while hydrogen is expected to have only a limited role for most industrial estates.

For local authority officers, the reports provide practical evidence and a replicable methodology to support Local Area Energy Planning, industrial decarbonisation, and infrastructure investment decisions. They help councils to identify priority sectors, assess grid capacity challenges, engage businesses more effectively, and develop place-based Net Zero strategies that align industrial growth with future energy system requirements.

Industrial energy modelling for Net Zero planning

Medium-sized industrial and commercial clusters play a significant role in energy demand and carbon emissions but are often overlooked in traditional energy planning. The Industrial Energy Modelling project was developed by the Midlands Net Zero Hub in partnership with organisations including NESO, NGED, EMCCA, local authorities, L&LBSP, and Regen to better understand how these clusters use energy and how they can transition to Net Zero.

The project developed and tested a practical and replicable methodology across six industrial clusters in the Midlands. Using publicly available data alongside direct engagement with businesses and stakeholders, the project created an evidence base to understand current energy demand, future electricity requirements, and potential decarbonisation pathways.

The findings highlight that widespread electrification of heating, low-temperature industrial processes, and transport will be central to industrial decarbonisation. The research also demonstrates the significant impact that the electrification of heavy goods vehicles may have on local electricity demand and network infrastructure requirements.

The reports provide valuable evidence for local authorities, network operators, planners, and businesses seeking to understand industrial energy use, develop Local Area Energy Plans, and plan for future energy infrastructure investment. They also highlight the importance of improving access to business energy data and ensuring future energy systems are designed around real operational needs.

Exploring the key findings of the Industrial Energy Modelling project

Hosted on 29 June 2026 by the Midlands Net Zero Hub and Regen, this webinar presents the key findings of the Industrial Energy Modelling project and demonstrates how the methodology can support local and regional energy planning.

The session examines how medium-sized industrial and commercial clusters contribute to energy demand and carbon emissions. It also highlights key decarbonisation pathways and introduces an innovative modelling approach designed to support local and regional energy planning.

Who are these for?

These resources provide a practical methodology for analysing energy use and decarbonisation opportunities within industrial and commercial clusters. They are particularly relevant for local authorities, Net Zero Hubs, distribution network operators, energy planners, and organisations developing Local Area Energy Plans, infrastructure strategies, and industrial decarbonisation programmes.

Industrial energy modelling for Net Zero planning

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