SSEN Distribution, UK Power Networks and Grid Electricity Distribution have introduced a shared framework to standardise how Local Area Energy Planning (LAEP) data is exchanged with councils, aiming to speed up decisions and reduce duplication.

The joint programme, developed with Oxfordshire County Council, is designed to make local energy planning faster, simpler and more effective. It builds on the Energy Networks Association's Open Networks project initiated in 2020, alongside recent collaborative engagement between distribution network operators (DNOs).

At its core, the project delivers a consistent template for sharing information between networks and local authorities, including LAEP outputs. By aligning formats, structures and assumptions, the framework allows data to be provided once and used by multiple utilities regardless of how many networks operate in an area.

The approach is expected to be particularly beneficial for the 54 local authorities whose boundaries span more than one network. Those councils will no longer need to supply the same local data in different formats, cutting administrative effort and cost.

Standardised LAEP outcomes should be shared and interpreted more quickly, supporting faster decision-making on heat, transport and wider energy infrastructure planning at a local level.

For system operators, consistent LAEP data will feed directly into key network planning and investment processes such as Distribution Future Energy Scenarios (DFES) and Distribution Network Options Assessments (DNOA). Better inputs are expected to improve forecasting and enable more targeted, efficient investment, helping to keep bills down while preparing networks for accelerating electrification.

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The programme reflects extensive collaboration across multiple Distribution System Operators (DSOs), local authorities and delivery partners ERM and Regen. Other DSOs have already shown interest, signalling potential for national rollout.

The launch coincides with progress in central southern England, where Southampton City Council has begun work on a 'Digital LAEP' using SSEN's LENZA (Local Energy Net Zero Accelerator) programme. Built on Advanced Infrastructure's award-winning platform, LENZA enables data-driven, joint planning between local authorities and network operators.

This is intended to give Southampton a clearer view of how its energy system should evolve to meet its ambitions more affordably and efficiently than traditional consultancy-led approaches.

Sarah Kerr, Energy Systems Lead at Oxfordshire County Council, said: "Local authorities like us rely on clear, consistent and high-quality data to deliver our net zero ambitions. This standardised template removes a major barrier for councils like ours that work with more than one DNO.

"It will save time and resources while giving us the confidence that our plans are fully aligned with regional and national energy needs. We welcome the collaborative approach taken and see real potential for the template to be adopted widely."

Andy Wainwright, Whole System Manager at Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution, said: "Collaborative working is essential in developing common solutions to deliver the decarbonisation of homes, transport and the economy in a way that works for local communities.

"This joint work with Oxfordshire County Council will improve its ability to provide local insights into DNO Forecasting processes. In turn, this will also enable DNOs to better develop their networks to meet future energy needs.

"We look forward to further working with partners on enhancements, including greater digitalisation."

Lynne McDonald, Head of Local Net Zero at UK Power Networks, said: "This joint DSO initiative is a powerful example of sector-wide collaboration to make life simpler for local authorities. By standardising how councils can share their clean energy and growth data, we enable data to be "shared once" by our local authorities and then this data used by all local utilities.

"That means smarter, more efficient planning and investment decisions shaped by local needs – ultimately delivering benefits for every electricity customer."

Emily Taylor, Regional Decarbonisation Manager at National Grid DSO, said: "We've taken a major step with our fellow DSOs to create a common approach that makes sharing information simpler and quicker for local authorities. This means councils can provide their plans in a clear, consistent way, helping us design the electricity networks that communities need.

"We really value this collaborative way of working and are committed to continuing partnerships like this to deliver practical solutions that support our stakeholders."