Decision - Sussex Energy Mission

Resolved: 2.1 That the Board agrees that it will assume a strong leadership and convening role, across Greater Brighton, and wider Sussex region, and to coalesce around a focal ambition. 2.2 That the Board agrees that achieving net zero energy status by 2040 will be this overarching aspiration for the region over the next 15 years. Net zero energy status means the total amount of energy used by our community on an annual basis is equal to the amount of zero-carbon energy created within the community. 2.3 That the Board members will use their networks and influence to promote the Sussex Energy work and encourage collaboration. 2.4 That whilst achieving net zero energy status by 2040 will be the flagship ambition the Board agrees that resource permitting, other current and future strands of important work will continue. 2.5 That the Board agrees to set aside £50,000 of initial funding from the 2024/25 budget and also commit at least a further £50,000 in 2025/26. 2.6 That as a first step towards achieving this ambition, four working groups be convened which will draw upon expertise from Board members and wider stakeholders and new partners. The groups will cover the following four themes: i. Energy Efficiency & Transition ii. Local Energy Infrastructure iii. Key Proposition Development, Success Measurement & Funding Strategy iv. Developing Jobs & Skills

The Greater Brighton Economic Board decided to use its convening power to bring together public sector, academic, business and community partners around a net zero energy mission. The mission aims for the Greater Brighton and wider Sussex areas to produce as much zero-carbon energy as they use by 2040, while reducing energy demand and supporting economic and social benefits.