This infographic will help local authorities to understand what RESP might mean for them with tips for what actions they can take to prepare.
Resource
This infographic will help local authorities to understand what RESP might mean for them with tips for what actions they can take to prepare.
RESP purpose
RESP will shape the energy infrastructure that underpins our places for decades to come.
Local authorities bring the essential local insight on people, places, ambition, and delivery.
What success looks like
Local priorities reflected in regional plans.
Stronger alignment with local plans and strategies.
Better outcomes for communities and businesses.
A Net Zero energy system that works for our region.
Timeline overview
RESP is a multi-year process of evidence, engagement, and decision-making.
Dates are indicative and subject to change.
2026
Foundations and set-up
Jan – May 2026
Governance, working groups, and methodology development get underway.
Key outputs
- Governance and groups in place
- Methodology consulted
- Initial forum engagement
Our role
Get organised and connected.
Key questions
- Who is our lead officer?
- What coordination do we need?
- What data already exists?
Key actions
- Establish internal RESP group
- Map data and evidence
- Introduce yourself to NESO RESP regional team
- Join regional forums
2026
Evidence and engagement
Jun – Dec 2026
Data and technical inputs collected. Local insight shapes the evidence base.
Key outputs
- Data requests to authorities
- Regional forums
- Methodology published
Our role
Provide insight and shape the evidence.
Key questions
- What local priorities matter most?
- What assumptions should be tested?
- How can local knowledge improve evidence?
Key actions
- Response to data requests
- Attend forums and webinars
- Join relevant working groups
- Provide feedback on methodology
2026
Modelling and analysis
Jan – Dec 2026
Strategic pathways and investment options are developed and reviewed.
Key outputs
- Emerging pathways
- Strategic recommendations
- Modelling outputs
Our role
Influence pathways and investment needs.
Key questions
- Do pathways reflect local ambition?
- What infrastructure is required?
- How does it align with neighbouring areas?
Key actions
- Engage in workshops and validation
- Submit evidence and forecasts
- Attend working groups and forums
- Review strategic board outputs
2027
Consultation and decisions
Jan – Dec 2027
Consultation takes place and decisions are finalised.
Key outputs
- RESP consultation
- Consultation decisions
- Transitional RESP published
Our role
Respond to consultation and influence decisions.
Key questions
- Do draft RESPs reflect local needs and opportunities?
- Are there any gaps or risks?
- What are the implications for our plans and delivery?
Key actions
- Review and respond to consultation
- Engage members/cabinet as needed
- Provide clear structured feedback
- Continue engagement in groups and forums
2028
Outputs and implementation
Jan – Jun 2028
RESPs published with resources supporting local delivery.
Key outputs
- 11 RESPs published
- Support resources
- Evidence to guide delivery
Our role
Use RESP outputs to support delivery.
Key questions
- How do RESPs align with our Local Plan and other strategies?
- What opportunities exist for local investment and partners?
- How will we monitor and adapt over time?
Key actions
- Review RESP outputs
- Align with Local Plans and strategies
- Identify opportunities and partners
- Plan for delivery and monitoring
Cross-cutting considerations
Planning and spatial
Ensure alignment with Local Plans, Spatial Development Strategies, and place-based priorities.
Climate and nature
Support Net Zero, resilience, and nature recovery strategies.
Economic growth
Unlock investment jobs and skills for local communities.
Communities
Support fairness, energy security, and community benefit.
Data and evidence
Share accurate, timely data to improve modelling outcomes.
Engagement matters
Your input helps create RESPs that reflect our places and priorities. We’re better together.
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