Energy networks launch shared template to help councils deliver net zero projects

19 September 2025

Three of Britain’s biggest energy network operators have introduced a new system designed to speed up the way councils plan and deliver local climate projects.

UK Power Networks, Cadent and SGN, which together serve more than 25 million people, have launched a ‘Common Ask Template’ allowing local authorities to provide key information once in a single format, instead of sending it separately to different utilities. This will reduce paperwork, avoid repeated requests and help councils dedicate more resources to decarbonisation work.

The template is already being used by Hounslow Council, while five further authorities in Outer East London have adopted it through the Greater London Authority’s Local Area Energy Planning programme.

The system is intended to speed up delivery of infrastructure such as electric vehicle charging points and low-carbon heating. For communities, it means all networks and councils can share information just once, creating a more joined-up approach across gas and electricity planning. It also allows for quicker investment decisions by cutting delays, and supports more targeted investment, so utilities can focus resources where they are most needed.

The blueprint was developed by UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator and is designed to work for councils at different stages of their climate planning, from those just beginning to those with advanced modelling in place. It is expected to support projects through to 2050 and could be replicated across other regions.