There are four 4Cs to consider when thinking about private wire networks - cost, carbon, capacity & communities. Projects are more likely to be approved when all these topics are considered.
Businesses must speak to specialists who understand the ecosystem of challenges whether these relate to energy needs and demands, planning, land impacts, ecology, and complex technical designs. Combining energy, social, and industrial interests is not easy, especially in an era when local authorities and communities are aware of conflicting needs.
It is now important to marry up power generation, industry demand and opportunities to for local communities. The aim is to be creative and build self-sufficiency. This can build local energy resilience and reduce the impact on the national grid.
There are also so many co-benefits that come with developing private wire networks when local communities, district and local councils and businesses are involved, driving economic growth and energy autonomy.
Private wire network developers will need to integrate renewable energy and social, as well as community strategies. This must include transparent decision-making and renewable energy governance so that operators can reassure planning committees and communities that they will contribute to essential infrastructure that maximises the economic, environmental and social benefits for communities.
Meaningful co-creation with communities, based on a ‘nothing about us, without us’ principle, is essential.
Anna Fredlander, Social Value Consultant, Hoare Lea
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