Can the north west be a green energy superpower

See the full report on the Green Britain Foundation website

Introduction

The North West Green Energy Task Force was established to explore the region's potential to become a renewable energy leader. Supported by the mayors of Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region, this initiative investigated whether the North West could generate enough green energy to meet and exceed its own needs. The findings show that the region has the capacity to produce twice the energy it requires, presenting an opportunity for economic growth, energy security, and lower consumer bills.

The report is divided into three key areas:

1. The renewable energy potential of the North West

2. Strategies for public engagement in the transition to net zero

3. The benefits of community and cooperative ownership of energy infrastructure

Becoming a Clean Energy Superpower

The Region’s Renewable Energy Potential

The research conducted by the task force confirmed that the North West could generate 92TWh of renewable energy annually, more than double the projected future demand of 46TWh. This energy could be sourced from:

• Onshore and offshore wind

• Solar (ground-based and rooftop)

• Tidal energy

• Green gas (bioenergy from organic materials)

• Energy Independence and Economic Growth

By developing these energy sources, the North West has the potential to:

• Become energy independent, reducing reliance on fossil fuels

• Create tens of thousands of green jobs in renewable energy and infrastructure development

• Generate £50 billion annually at current energy prices

• Provide lower energy bills for residents by reinvesting profits locally

Public Ownership and Local Investment

To maximise these benefits, the report suggests that renewable energy assets should be owned collectively rather than controlled by large corporations. Public and cooperative ownership models can ensure that profits are reinvested into:

• Public services

• Infrastructure improvements

• Community projects

The Labour Party’s Great British Energy proposal could support local ownership, ensuring that economic gains stay within the region.

Engaging the Public in the Green Energy Transition

The Importance of Public Engagement

Public support is crucial for a successful transition to renewable energy. Research from Climate Outreach, one of the task force’s partners, indicates that most people are concerned about climate change but often feel powerless to make a difference. To address this, effective communication strategies are needed.

Key Public Engagement Strategies

1. Building a Shared Narrative

   • Frame renewable energy as a forever fuel that provides long-term security

   • Highlight economic benefits, such as lower bills and job creation

   • Address the cost of living crisis and show how renewables provide relief

2. Tailoring Messages to Different Audiences

   • Avoid polarisation by ensuring messages appeal to a wide political spectrum.

   • Use trusted messengers such as local businesses, community leaders, and health professionals, rather than politicians or activists.

3. Strengthening Public Trust

   • A significant portion of the UK public feels the system is rigged against them.

   • Ensuring fairness in energy transition policies can help build trust and participation.

4. Providing Tangible Ways to Get Involved

   • Offer community investment opportunities where local people can own part of renewable energy projects.

   • Increase education and awareness about energy efficiency and green jobs.

The Role of Local Leaders

The report urges metro mayors to:

• Lead by example in promoting clean energy projects.

• Hold the central government accountable for meeting climate commitments.

• Ensure local communities are consulted in decision-making.

Co-operative and Community-Owned Energy

The Power of Local Ownership

Community energy projects can:

• Empower local residents by allowing them to invest in renewables

• Create jobs in installation, maintenance, and operations

• Strengthen local economies by keeping profits within the community

Existing UK and European Models

Successful examples of cooperative energy projects include:

• Baywind Energy Co-operative (Cumbria, UK) – One of the UK’s oldest community-owned wind farms

• Grimsby Community Energy – A solar energy cooperative that has installed panels on community buildings

• Samso Island (Denmark) – A fully energy-independent island powered by locally owned renewables

Recommendations for the North West

The task force recommends multi-stakeholder cooperatives, combining:

• Public ownership (e.g., local councils)

• Private investment

• Community shares

This model ensures that decision-making is democratic and that energy profits benefit the people who live in the North West.

Conclusion: A Blueprint for the UK

The North West’s renewable energy potential presents an unparalleled opportunity to:

• Achieve energy security and independence.

• Reduce reliance on fossil fuels

• Create thousands of high-quality green jobs

• Provide cheaper and cleaner energy for residents

• Develop a community-owned energy system that reinvests in local people

This transition is not just about hitting net zero targets—it is about economic regeneration, fairness, and long-term prosperity. By taking bold action now, the North West can lead the UK in building a green and resilient future.