Net zero masterplan is revealed

A wide-ranging plan to deliver net zero improvements in energy and heating systems across Stirling and Clackmannanshire has been approved.

The Regional Energy Masterplan, developed jointly by Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils, maps out a route to reaching a net zero energy system across the region within measured time periods, considering the region’s energy use and needs. It includes a delivery plan, split into five-year phases, that outlines proposed projects, associated costs and CO2 reductions.

The masterplan is a key part of the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, a £214million partnership between both local authorities, the University of Stirling and the UK and Scottish Governments.

It has been shaped through engagement with key stakeholders, local communities, businesses and the public, and lays out a route to net zero using four key levers:

∙Energy efficiency – reducing energy use and heat demand, primarily through building improvements.

∙ Heat management – decarbonising heating systems through renewable technologies and opportunities for localised heat networks.

∙ Energy generation – generating new renewable electricity to support the development of decarbonised heat and local energy solutions.

∙ Sequestration – removing residual emissions through the restoration of nature, primarily woodlands though the likes of tree planting schemes.

Stirling Council leader, Councillor Chris Kane said:“transforming our energy use and generation will be key to addressing the climate and nature emergency.

“The Regional Energy Masterplan is our road map for cutting emissions and creating a net-zero energy system that protects our natural environment for future generations. It also outlines the ways we can seize opportunities to reduce fuel poverty, increase well-being and create new businesses and jobs.

“Successfully delivering the projects within the plan and achieving our objectives will need everyone working together with a common purpose – both councils, residents, private organisations, the public sector and the third sector.”

Councillor Fiona Law, Clackmannanshire Council’s spokesperson for the environment and net zero, said:“everyone has their part to play in protecting our planet and I look forward to working alongside our partners, businesses, the private sector and residents in achieving our net zero goals.”

The draft masterplan was approved at recent meetings of Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils.

The potential projects include: energy efficiency improvements within buildings; installing district heating networks at a number of identified locations in the region; generating renewable energy through the likes of solar panels at suitable sites and capturing carbon by planting millions of tree and restoring peatlands.

All projects and programmes deemed viable will be brought to future committee meetings for approval.