Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Local Area Energy Plans

28 April 2026 · 1 other contributor

Opened by James Naish Lab Rushcliffe

Energy

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

James Naish raised concerns about local area energy plans in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Moves a Bill to place a duty on local authorities in England to produce and maintain local area energy plans
  • Outlines the benefits of community engagement for large infrastructure projects, citing personal experience
  • Highlights the need for strategic oversight by local authorities regarding energy infrastructure

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

James Naish Lab Rushcliffe

Moves a Bill to place a duty on local authorities in England to produce and maintain local area energy plans; outlines the benefits of community engagement for large infrastructure projects, citing personal experience leading public engagement on fusion energy plant projects; highlights the need for strategic oversight by local authorities regarding energy infrastructure; proposes mandatory data-sharing by distribution network operators and giving legal weight to local area energy plans; aims to shift the narrative from opposition to consent through informed participation.

Other contributors (1)
  • James Naish Con Rushcliffe

    Presents a Bill mandating local authorities to produce detailed local area energy plans, setting targets for each area and identifying suitable sites; aims to enhance community engagement in energy infrastructure projects through strategic planning and consultation processes; emphasises the importance of informed participation to mitigate opposition and ensure successful delivery of clean energy transition; proposes data-sharing requirements and legal recognition for local energy plans.

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