Future Energy Landscapes in action
The Future Energy Landscape approach is transforming how local renewable energy policy is developed across England and Wales. Below are some stories showing how FEL can bridge the gap between local communities and local and national policy-making. Our workshops have helped communities all around the UK including Wellow, Wales, North Somerset and South Downs.
By involving people in shaping their local renewable energy future, we’re not just meeting targets – we’re building a sustainable, community-backed renewable energy sector.
The workshop made me believe our Parish could do something that before I thought was impossible. It is vital we discuss these issues as a community because it seems that change will happen at grass roots level.
Matthew, attendee at the Harting FEL workshop.
The Future Energy Landscape of…
Wellow
We interviewed Marchelle who was a participant in a workshop in Wellow. We asked her about the workshop, here’s what she said:
Mid Wales
CSE worked with the National Infrastructure Commission for Wales to deliver FEL workshops in six communities in Mid Wales, including in two secondary schools. The insights gained from these community engagements informed suggestions to the Welsh Government on how to:
- Enhance Wales’s capacity to efficiently deliver renewable infrastructure.
- Meet renewable energy and zero carbon targets.
- Effectively involve communities in the process.
- Ensure that the value of these developments benefits the country.
Our FEL approach directly influenced policy recommendations. We proposed that the Welsh Government introduce new legislation in the next Senedd to promote greater community ownership of renewable energy projects. Additionally, we suggested policies requiring renewable energy developments to offer community ownership opportunities.
North Somerset
We partnered with North Somerset Council to conduct FEL workshops in three areas across the region. Our aim was to:
- Understand community preferences for future renewable energy development.
- Help the council create policies that reflect community values and input.
- Inform the council’s emerging planning policies for renewable energy projects.
This project demonstrates how FEL can help local authorities develop renewable energy policies that are both ambitious and aligned with community preferences. By involving residents in the planning process, we’re fostering greater acceptance and support for renewable energy projects, even in sensitive landscape areas.
Our FEL process delivered:
- Increased local support: After each workshop, participants showed greater openness to renewable energy in their area.
- Broad acceptance: Even in sensitive landscapes like Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Green Belt, communities were willing to consider various forms of renewable energy.
- Policy recommendations: We provided the council with policy suggestions based on options that garnered local support.
- Detailed insights: Our report outlines the specific renewable energy options that participants found acceptable for their future energy landscape.
The findings from our North Somerset workshops are available in our report here.
The findings from our Bath & North East Somerset workshops are available in our report here.
South Downs National Park
The South Downs, renowned for its beautiful rolling chalk hills, might seem an unlikely place for renewable energy development. However, our FEL workshops revealed lots of support for sustainable energy solutions in this cherished landscape.
CSE is helping Energise South Downs to independently run FEL workshops in 10 communities across the region and so far, we’ve found:
- 90% of participants reported that the workshops positively influenced their perception of renewable energy.
- 95% agreed that community conversations about renewables were valuable.
Our FEL process delivered
- Collaborative visioning: Participants appreciated being asked to envision their community’s energy future.
- Instant feedback: We provided real-time data on how different energy models could meet local needs.
- Empowerment: The workshops helped residents believe in the possibility of community-led change.
“CSE is really driving local change. The FEL toolkit and excellent free materials really helps local groups move forward with communities and planning.”
Catriona Cockburn, Project Director at Energise South Downs.
This project shows that with the right engagement approach, even communities in sensitive landscapes can become enthusiastic supporters of renewable energy.
Interested in the Future Energy Landscapes approach?
Speak to our communities team to see how we can help you, or download our free toolkit to get started.