Regen was commissioned by the University of Strathclyde to synthesise the huge body of research conducted in the EnergyREV programme and identify key recommendations and next steps for delivering smart local energy systems.
Smart local energy systems (SLES) bring together energy supply, storage, heat, transport and buildings in a local area. They connect them in a smart way using data and digital technologies, and provide new opportunities for people, communities, and other local stakeholders to get involved.
This report summarises insights from across the huge body of EnergyREV research, which highlighted seven key building blocks for unlocking the value of SLES:
- Developing robust policy regulation and governance
- Creating a collaborative environment
- Building local skills
- Engaging and empowering the local community
- Unlocking innovative business models
- Ensuring market value and interoperability
- Underpinning with robust cyber-physical infrastructure
For each of these building blocks, our report outlines key recommendations for government, Ofgem, local authorities and others developing SLES, SLES programme funders, and relevant educators and qualifying bodies. In addition, the report reveals five cross-cutting challenges, and makes suggestions for next steps to address each of them.
You can download the report here, and watch our report launch event here.
If you’d like to chat further about this work, please contact Rebecca Ford.