Regional Energy Strategic Plans (RESPs): Briefing guide for local authorities

This briefing guide, produced by Regen for Innovate UK’s Net Zero Living programme, explains the purpose and development of Regional Energy Strategic Planners (RESPs), a new framework led by Ofgem and delivered by the National Energy System Operator (NESO).

RESPs aim to coordinate strategic energy planning across regions to support local Net Zero ambitions by integrating electricity, gas, and heat infrastructure planning. RESPs will support local authorities through place-based engagement, technical coordination, and strategic investment planning to unlock energy capacity and accelerate decarbonisation.

The guide is particularly useful for local authorities because it:

• Highlights how RESPs will address energy capacity constraints that currently hinder local Net Zero plans.
• Explains the role of local authorities in shaping regional energy strategies through Local Area Energy Plans (LAEPs) and engagement with RESP governance.
• Details the proposed functions of RESPs, including strategic planning, technical coordination, place-based engagement, and support for local actors.
• Outlines governance models that include democratic accountability and representation from local authorities.
• Emphasises the importance of aligning regional and national energy planning to unlock infrastructure investment.
• Provides insight into upcoming consultations and how local authorities can influence RESP development.

By engaging with RESP processes, councils can ensure their priorities are reflected in future energy infrastructure planning, helping to overcome grid constraints, accelerate decarbonisation, and support economic development. The guide also signposts further resources and events to help local authorities prepare for and participate in the RESP consultation.

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