Unlocking city decarbonisation

About the event 

This hybrid event, brought to you by Steer and Amberside Advisors, examined the challenges local authorities face in delivering net zero targets and explore practical and investable solutions for accelerating decarbonisation across all sectors.

An expert panel from across the political, academic, investor, and local and central Government spectrum to came together to share a variety of insights on how cities can speed up the transition to net zero in an equitable way.

With the deadline looming for achieving net zero, it is time to act and deliver the projects and policies that will bring our local communities closer to a decarbonised future. 

The discussion focussed on how to:

• Build consensus with residents and businesses;
• Structure projects to attract investment and unlock the right financing options;
• Build effective public and private sector partnerships to enable successful project delivery.

All while acknowledging the challenging landscape of budget constraints, limited resources and the need for integrated planning and cross-sector collaboration. 

Hosted by Shivali Mathur, Associate for Energy Transition, Amberside Advisors.

Event summary: Explore key insights from 'Unlocking City Decarbonisation' on achieving Net Zero goals through effective communication, innovative funding, and strategic planning. Read more.

Watch the full event recording

Meet the speakers 

Andrew Farrimond, Infrastructure Sector Lead at Aviva, oversees the infrastructure division of Aviva Capital Partners, employing direct equity to enhance prosperity, inclusivity, and sustainability in communities. With over fifteen years of experience in infrastructure, Andrew previously worked in structured finance at the Royal Bank of Scotland and advised central government on major programs at the Infrastructure and Projects Authority. His career began in strategy consulting, and he also served as an Army Officer in the Royal Engineers.

Prof. Jillian Anable, Chair in Transport and Energy at the University of Leeds, is an expert in travel behavior, climate change, and energy policy. Her research emphasises demand-side solutions, applying social psychological theories and market segmentation techniques to influence travel, vehicle choice, and energy behaviors. With a policy-focused approach, she leads research at the Institute for Transport Studies, University of Leeds.

Patrick Allcorn, Head of Local Energy at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), leads a team dedicated to fostering energy solutions at the local level. He played a pivotal role in designing and implementing the Domestic RHI and spearheaded community energy initiatives at DECC. Patrick's previous experience includes roles at Transport for London and the London Borough of Croydon. He initiated the LEAF project, facilitating the establishment of over 200 local energy schemes in 2012.

Colin Blackburn, Assistant Director at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), leads strategic policy and investment projects in housing, regeneration, infrastructure, and energy/net zero initiatives, working with Local Planning Authorities to align spatial planning policy and delivery across South Yorkshire. Prior to joining SYMCA, Colin held key roles at Leeds City Council, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and the North East Assembly.