SWM News February 2021: Reflections on Midlands Low Carbon Sector Final Engagement Conference
SWM and kMatrix Data Services have been commissioned by the Midlands Energy Hub to provide an evidence-based study in the Low Carbon Environmental Goods & Services (LCEGS) Sector. Our final stakeholder engagement conference took place on Tuesday 23 February and bought together over 100 cross-sector attendees from the private and public sector to discuss opportunities to grow low carbon businesses and address current challenges.
The afternoon was filled with interesting presentations which, after a quick welcome from our CEO Anna Bright, began with an overview of the study from Lead of the Midlands Energy Hub, Michael Gallagher. Michael explained that the low carbon sector “is no longer a small part of the economy, it’s absolutely critical to the midlands region.” Next, we heard from Gary Sturgeon from the Local Climate and Energy Team at BEIS who discussed the importance of the ‘10 Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution’ to make strides towards net zero in 2050.
Similarly, Professor Martin Freer from the Energy Research Accelerator discussed the work being done by the Midlands Engine to develop the regional ’10 Point Green Growth Action Plan’. He explained that Midlands Engine recognises that it has a greater role to play in shaping the low carbon transition. But within this Martin explained that “transition is not without challenges and overcoming these challenges leads to opportunities."
Our first breakout session provided an opportunity for our attendees to discuss these opportunities and challenges from the LCEGS sector, regarding funding, business support and skills, policy and governance, investment, and technology and infrastructure. Whereas, the second focused more on sub-regional strengths at LEP level. From discussions across the breakout sessions it is clear that collaboration can be the driving force in overcoming these challenges.
Across the conference and breakout sessions, it became clear that there are vast opportunities across the Midlands in the LCEGS sector. The drive for change shown by the 100’s of attendees from across the region must be harnessed and built upon to lead to great things across the sector!
Amy Bostock, Volunteer Communications Officer, on behalf of the SWM Team
