The South2East Local Energy Strategy, which will help meet statutory climate change targets for 2032 and 2050, was formally launched on March 25, at The Crystal, Royal Victoria Dock, London, with White Label supporting the communications strategy.
It has been drawn up by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP), Coast to Capital and Enterprise M3 LEPs, in partnership with Siemens.
Carl Ennis, Managing Director, Siemens Energy Management, said: “The South East has the opportunity and the ability to lead in the low carbon economy, not just on a local level but as a beacon for the whole of the UK.”
He highlighted how the area is rich in natural assets, that new technology is becoming viable and key sectors are engaging, while challenges posed by grid constraints could be overcome by creating localised energy sources as emphasised in the strategy.
Dave Axam, Chair, Enterprise M3, agreed the region has global potential.
“We can lead the world in this technology,” he said. “Enterprise M3 is a knowledge, digital and design -based economy. It is exactly the kind of economy which can turn these ideas into success not just in the UK but in the world. It’s not a decision between economic growth and a low carbon economy, we can do both.”
He praised the joint working that brought the Strategy together, saying: “It is all about partnership. This is a fantastic example of three LEPs pooling resources but it extends beyond LEPs, it’s a collaboration.”
Adam Bryan, Managing Director, South East LEP, also emphasised the economic benefits of the Strategy, saying: “The low carbon supply chain is growing faster than the general economy. Investment in low carbon is not just good for the environment but makes commercial sense too, it is an opportunity for business growth as the 18 projects set out in the strategy highlight.”
He added: “The Tri-LEP area has a strong track record in entrepreneurship and a network of universities with key strengths in research and development. With public sector support, I am confident, that innovators across the area will bring forward clean growth solutions.”
White Label has just been re-appointed as the communications agency for EM3, driving their new campaign to highlight the LEP’s women leaders as part of International Women’s Day and is also supporting South East LEP in its communications strategy.
