Councils Can Drive Net Zero — But Not Without Their Communities

Councillor Ryan Jude, the “Green Finance Expert” said in May 2022:

"The importance of local authorities in achieving our net-zero targets is often overlooked in the UK. The National Audit Office has said that the UK government is yet to fully consider and define the role local authorities must play in meeting our targets.

This is despite the government’s own Net Zero Strategy admitting that 82% of all UK emissions are “within the scope of influence of local authorities”. Although directly responsible for only two to five per cent of local emissions, local authorities have levers of influence that extend far beyond this. From their immediate control over council-owned buildings and local transport networks, to their wider influence through sustainable procurement practices, planning policy and local engagement with businesses and residents, councils hold a uniquely important position in the transition.”

Councillor Ryan Jude, “Local Authorities are Crucial to the UK Achieving Net Zero”, May 2022

While residents support the transition to net-zero and recognise the important role of local authorities, the ‘Future of PDHU’ district heating proposal lacks transparency, cost control and meaningful resident consultation. Climate goals must be achieved responsibly, not through disproportionate and unaffordable costs to residents.

Yes, councils have a key role in shaping local energy systems, but such projects must involve those who are paying for them. Councillor Ryan Jude, dubbed the “Green Finance Expert,” noted in May 2022 that councils can make a big difference in cutting emissions, not just through the buildings and services they directly run, but also by influencing things like planning decisions and how they spend money. But this influence must be used with communities, not imposed on them.

Residents, including both council tenants and leaseholders, are expected to fund complex and high-risk heat network infrastructure without clear returns or cost protections. Tenants pay for heating through rent and service charges, meaning they too are financially locked into these systems. Leaseholders, many of whom are not wealthy investors but ordinary residents, are being treated as a captive audience: unable to opt out or question the option selection.

The National Audit Office has already warned that many councils lack the expertise and oversight needed to successfully deliver complex energy projects. Is Councillor Jude confident this council is equipped to manage this project without financial or operational failures that fall back on residents?

Councillor Jude’s own Climate Action Plan stresses equity and fairness, so how does imposing thousands of pounds in charges on residents, without proper consultation or clear protections, reflect those values?

Net zero must be democratic, not authoritarian. All residents must be treated as partners in the transition, not just as passive payers. Climate justice means ensuring that decarbonisation is fair, transparent and accountable to the very people who will live with the consequences.

The council must pause the project. Sign our petition now