Open data initiative to accelerate council’s net zero plans

UK Power Networks, in partnership with local authorities, has identified a series of 100 datasets needed by local authorities to achieve their net zero aims.

An open data initiative aims to help local authorities accelerate their plans to achieve net zero by allowing them access to data they need in one place.

Datasets range from wind speeds, flood zones and socio-economic data to electricity network maps and information showing where there is extra electrical capacity and all are free to use.

Net zero plans

UK Power Networks, in partnership with local authorities including Essex County Council and the Greater London Authority, has identified a series of 100 datasets needed by local authorities to inform net zero plans.

They are available for anyone to use on UK Power Networks’ Open Data Portal and will be continuously updated. For example, local authorities will now be able to understand the best place to connect renewable energy generators as well as what type of energy generation will be most effective in their neighbourhoods, whether that is solar, wind or battery.

“We hope to empower local authorities to take climate action now, giving them the data and digital tools they need to make informed decisions”

“Stakeholders told us open data sits at the very centre of the transition to net zero and enables them to make the best choices for their local communities,” said Lynne McDonald, local area energy planning manager at UK Power Networks. “Access to the right data, in the right format is crucial to driving targets and open data like this is unrivalled in the industry. We hope to empower local authorities to take climate action now, giving them the data and digital tools they need to make informed decisions.”