Climate Change Strategy

In developing the sub regional strategy for South Hampshire PUSH has been clear that the proposed level of economic and housing growth could only be acceptable in terms of its environmental impact if the highest reasonably achievable standard of sustainable development is delivered.

In September 2007 PUSH commissioned Arup to advise on the feasibility of an energy strategy for the sub-region. The objective of the study was to examine the baseline use of energy in the sub region and make recommendations on how we could move towards a more sustainable low carbon economy with increased use of renewable energy sources. The brief also required advice on appropriate organisational structures and a strategic policy framework for managing energy within the sub region.

Arup presented an underlying vision of how South Hampshire might look in terms of energy in 2026 based upon a local stewardship approach to meeting the challenges ahead. The report represents the prospects and priorities for a strategy to guide the development of South Hampshire over the next 20 years.

Feasibility of an Energy and Climate Change Strategy for South Hampshire  2Mb

The vision they presented is in contrast to the current intensive use of energy and resources based on the assumption that 'business as usual' is not an option moving into the future. They focussed upon reducing the carbon content of energy supply. They reinforced that encouraging a low carbon economy reduces the demand for, and dependance on, fossil fuels which are becoming increasingly expensive and at risk.

The study determined the level of energy use across the sub-region currently and demonstrated the magnitude of emissions that would exist if nothing changed and current trends continued. This meant that the anticipated growth in emissions were considered in their proposed carbon reduction strategy. Arup then reviewed reduction targets for the area and considered the measures that could be used to achieve these targets balancing technical achievability with economic acceptability (these measures cover both new build housing and the existing housing stock).

The PUSH Joint Committee endorsed this work in November 2008  30Kb. The report forms a platform upon which PUSH can develop a programme of initiatives to secure reductions in carbon emissions, stimulate the move towards renewable and low carbon energy sources and build an effective sub regional climate change strategy.

Work is underway to develop a sub-regional climate change strategy which will integrate the advice contained within this report.

Energy Workshop

A workshop was held on the 26th June 2009 to build on the work previously undertaken for PUSH (feasibility of an energy and climate change strategy). This workshop looked to take participants through a step progression leading from evidence on the way Hampshire uses energy, through to the ways in which emissions can be stabilised and reduced. Two sessions were held at the workshop in which specific questions were put to the attendees.

Notes from the Energy workshop  105Kb

Presentation from the Energy workshop  3Mb