Stoke-on-Trent City Council has agreed a partnership with an energy partner to develop sustainable heat networks across the city.
A Memorandum of Understanding signed between the local authority and SSE Energy Solutions aims to drive forward Stoke-on-Trent’s energy strategy, focusing on timely decarbonisation while fostering economic growth, job creation, and skills development in the green energy sector.
The five-year partnership will see the two organisations collaborate on mapping out the city’s wider path to net zero, which could potentially encompass a range of initiatives beyond heat networks, including renewable energy projects and EV charging infrastructure.
Perth-based SSE Energy Solutions has agreed to use local suppliers and workforce as part of the agreement.
Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, the city council’s cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration, said: “It’s great to have entered into this partnership with SSE, and comforting to know our vision for a cleaner, greener future is shared.
“In addition to this agreement to work together, SSE will also commit to helping develop local skills to support the delivery of milestone projects and using local suppliers and workforce.
“As a city, we continuously seek innovative solutions to support residents, businesses and communities with realistic and achievable energy solutions.
“This new agreement will also cement our commitment within the green energy sector, and in turn, show how attractive the city is for future development opportunities.”
According to recent government figures, heat networks are projected to meet 20 per cent of the country’s heat demand by 2050 and are seen as a crucial component in the UK’s strategy to decarbonise heating, which currently accounts for 37 per cent of CO2 emissions.
Nathan Sanders, Managing Director of SSE Energy Solutions, said: “Our partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council represents a shared vision for a cleaner, greener future. By combining SSE’s expertise in sustainable energy solutions with the council’s deep understanding of local needs, we’re creating a strong foundation for the city’s energy transition.
“This collaboration extends beyond reducing carbon emissions – it’s about supporting Stoke-on-Trent’s shift to a low-carbon economy. We’re eager to work with the council to explore innovative energy solutions that will contribute to the city’s sustainability goals and benefit its businesses and communities.”
