Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has put out an open call to find ready-to-start eco-projects.

The energy company, in collaboration with Ofgem and other energy firms, has drawn up plans to invest in green technologies across the UK.

From Monday, February 8, SSEN is launching a six week call for evidence in the north of Scotland and central and southern England for councils, developers, and other interested parties to give evidence on why their networks deserve this investment.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

A spokesman for SSEN said: “There is a particular interest in evidence about locations where network investment can be made quickly to support shovel-ready developments that underpin the transition to a net-zero carbon emissions economy, in line with government targets.”

There is up to £300m available across Great Britain and tens of millions of pounds for the north of Scotland and central southern England to enable fast-track green developments.

Investments generated from this opportunity will be directed to the most efficient projects or those who are able to demonstrate ‘least-regrets’ expenditure, which can make a real difference ahead of our next investment period, RIIO-ED2, which starts in April 2023.

Evidence will be gathered throughout the six-week period, which closes on March 19, and will look at how much of the electricity networks capacity might be used, how quickly infrastructure and solutions can be completed and the projects’ value for money.

Webinars will be available on SSEN’s website to show interested parties how their cases can make a difference.

Following the call to evidence process, SSEN Distribution will submit its green recovery investment plans to Ofgem for approval with a final decision to be made in May.

Chris Burchell, managing director, SSEN Distribution, said: “By unlocking early network investment where we know it will enable green growth, this scheme will help create jobs, boost local economies and drive further progress toward a zero-carbon world.

“We look forward to receiving input from stakeholders through the call for evidence process and working in collaboration to help deliver the net zero ambitions of the communities we serve.”

Jonathan Brearley, chief executive of Ofgem, said: “With the clock ticking on the UK’s race to hit net zero carbon emissions, we cannot afford to delay in building a clean energy infrastructure that will help power our transport and heat our homes emissions-free.

“We’re urging electricity network companies to come forward with fresh new sites for green investment, starting work quickly, to help kick start the green recovery.”