A NEW tool to help local communities and organisations take control of their energy and support Leicester’s net zero carbon ambitions has been launched.
The new digital tool, called LAEP lens, has been developed as part of a new Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) covering Leicester and Leicestershire.
It provides a detailed interactive map covering the city and county which will help communities and organisations to identify energy solutions tailored to their local area such as retrofitting homes with modern heating systems, expanding access to the electric vehicle charging and the installation of solar panel.
The map uses data including local energy demand in a defined area, energy performance certificate (EPC) ratings and the structure and suitability of buildings to help identify potential for solar panels.
The Leicester and Leicestershire LAEP has been developed by Leicestershire County Council with support from the city council.
It has been funded by Innovate UK as part of a national scheme to focus on testing new energy innovations, sharing best practice with other local authorities and highlighting investment opportunities.
Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “The launch of the Local Area Energy Plan and the new LAEP Lens will be extremely helpful in supporting businesses and local communities cut carbon emissions by making buildings and homes warmer and cheaper to run.
“By providing a clear, easy to use, interactive plan for energy improvements in the city and county, we can work with other project partners to attract new funding into renewable energy improvements, helping residents and businesses make their properties warmer and easier to heat, cut energy bills and reduce carbon emissions.”
The Local Area Energy Plan can viewed at www.greenerfutureleicestershire.co.uk