Government Market News’ Post

Navigating the Complex World of Electricity Networks As part of my MSc in Planning at The University of Manchester, one of the most rewarding experiences was presenting a group consultancy project to a hypothetical overseas investor on the UK’s infrastructure planning policy for electricity networks. Our task? To break down and critically assess the UK government’s approach to this sector—focusing on key documents like the National Policy Statements EN-1 & EN-5, the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and the National Infrastructure Strategy. The presentation highlighted the intricate layers of policy that guide the development of electricity networks, from the strategic national level down to local planning. We explored the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) regime, designed to fast-track large-scale infrastructure, but noted its challenges, including delays in decision-making and complex approval routes. Reflecting on the Experience Delivering this presentation was a whirlwind! Standing in front of the entire class, we discussed the strengths and weaknesses of the current framework - particularly how well-planned policies can promote renewable energy while addressing environmental concerns. The Q&A session at the end was especially engaging, as it pushed us to think on our feet and clarify our points. Key Feedback & Lessons Learned While our slides were highly praised for their clarity and design, we learned some valuable lessons. The feedback helped us realize that slowing down and focusing on the core planning policies (rather than historical context) would have been more impactful. We also missed a key aspect - defining NSIP thresholds under the 2008 Planning Act and their relationship to spatial scales. Nevertheless, the group effort and our analysis of policies like EN-5 and the Development Consent Order (DCO) process were well-received, with a clear understanding of the strengths and future challenges of the electricity network infrastructure. What I Took Away from This Experience This presentation taught me more than just policy specifics. It sharpened my ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, reinforced the importance of teamwork, and deepened my understanding of the relationship between infrastructure planning and sustainability. Above all, it reaffirmed my commitment to the transformative potential of urban and infrastructure planning in shaping sustainable futures. #Infrastructureplanning #Townplanning

Infrastructure: The Engine of Economic Growth Discover how infrastructure investments can drive innovation, create jobs, and boost economic prosperity. From roads and bridges to renewable energy and 5G networks, learn why infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving nation. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gVt_72nD #infrastructure #economicgrowth #investment #innovation #sustainability

Transforming America’s Future: Projects Funded Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law A New Era of Innovation and Sustainability The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) has ushered in unprecedented opportunities to reshape America’s energy and infrastructure landscape. By June 2024, several projects have been selected for funding awards or award negotiations, each exceeding $10 million. Here’s a closer look at the transformative initiatives driving this change. Selected Projects Over $10 Million ·       Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Projects: Major investments are supporting CCS facilities to reduce emissions in industrial and energy sectors, paving the way for large-scale decarbonization. ·       Hydrogen Hubs: Funding is directed toward the development of regional hydrogen hubs, promoting green hydrogen production and infrastructure. ·       Grid Modernization: Projects aimed at enhancing grid resilience and integrating renewable energy sources are receiving significant backing. ·       EV Infrastructure: Large-scale investments are being made to expand electric vehicle charging networks, ensuring nationwide coverage. ·       Renewable Energy Projects: Solar and wind initiatives are scaling up to provide sustainable energy solutions and meet ambitious climate targets. Why These Investments Matter ·       Economic Growth: These projects are expected to create thousands of jobs while strengthening the U.S. economy. ·       Global Leadership: With these investments, the U.S. is positioning itself as a leader in clean energy and sustainable infrastructure. ·       Investor Opportunities: The scale and scope of these initiatives open doors for private sector collaboration and innovation. Looking Ahead The projects funded under the BIL mark a turning point for America’s energy future. As these initiatives progress, they offer a blueprint for other nations aiming to balance growth and sustainability. #BipartisanInfrastructureLaw #EnergyTransition #CCSProjects #GreenHydrogen #InfrastructureInnovation #SustainabilityGoals #RenewableEnergy #GridModernization #EVInfrastructure #CleanEnergyFuture #NetZeroGreenBharat #CarbonHydrogenX

🔎 Political shifts, market challenges, and sector opportunities—what are the biggest trends in infrastructure investment? Our Q4 2024 Pulse Survey is now live. In the latest episode of Talking Global Infrastructure, we are joined by our Pulse partners Alvarez & Marsal to discuss everything from American energy dominance to Europe’s evolving markets and the UK's ongoing regulatory challenges, listen in as we reflect on the biggest infrastructure trends of 2024 and explore what lies ahead 🎧 GIIA's Simon Montague is joined by experts from A&M: Wayne Jephson, Infrastructure Transactions Specialist based in London; Jay Moody, Head of Energy and Infrastructure Practice, based in the U.S.; and Craig Forrest, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Lead for Europe, to discuss the findings of our Q4 2024 Pulse Survey ➡ https://lnkd.in/eivHM4kV Key Takeaways include: 🔹 Optimism sparked from the recent US election, with expectations of reduced regulatory hurdles, increased energy dominance, and midstream infrastructure growth. However, renewable energy faces headwinds, creating selective opportunities for investors. 🔹 Political instability in Europe’s core markets—France and Germany—has dented investor sentiment. Despite this, sectors like sustainable power generation and data centres remain strong, driven by AI demand and decarbonisation policies. Airports are also returning as viable investments as post-pandemic recovery progresses. 🔹 While the new Labour government is prioritising private investment, sentiment towards the UK lags behind, with issues such as unattractive regulation in the water and fiber sectors remaining as barriers. The Ofwat determinations mark a pivotal moment to restore confidence in UK infrastructure investment. 🔹 Investors highlighted key global challenges: political instability, tariffs, regulatory uncertainty, and access to talent. These barriers influence investment decisions and risk driving capital elsewhere. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to understand the global infrastructure investment landscape in 2025. Listen to the full episode here ➡ https://lnkd.in/ejax3QUU

"As electric vehicles become a vital part of the transportation landscape, it is crucial to ensure that communities are equipped to effectively implement electric vehicle infrastructure. For communities with fewer resources, especially those that are smaller and rural, additional support is essential. In many cases, the most important action a community can take to attract electric vehicle charging infrastructure investment is updating their zoning ordinances and streamlining permitting processes. Charging Smart, a technical assistance and recognition program, provides a road map for communities to complete these efforts. The program aims to support and empower communities to advance transportation electrification in a way that benefits all." Great Plains Institute

Four of the grants would provide government agencies with resources to expedite siting and permitting for transmission line projects. The remaining grants are focused on economic development in communities hosting transmission line projects. #construction #infrastructure #electricity

Where's best? Every six months we ask the world's leading infrastructure investors which are the most attractive countries in which to invest. Here's my podcast with experts from Alvarez & Marsal, in which we talk about the prospects for America, Europe and the UK, and how this extraordinary year for elections worldwide is shaping investor sentiment.

“North-south divide” on public EV infrastructure A north-south divide is threatening Britain’s net zero transition as local authorities face a disparity in access to cash and planning for public sector EV infrastructure, according to fresh research by charge point operator (CPO) Believ. The study by the firm found 33% of all local authorities surveyed claimed to have no formal EV infrastructure plan in place, rising to 40% for the North. Some 70% of respondents in the north describing access to sufficient funding as ‘a significant barrier’, compared with 45% in the south of England outside of London. Read the full story on the Transport + Energy website: https://lnkd.in/eFsWEzY5 Believ , Guy Bartlett , Perran Moon , David Bagwell , Julian Nassar , Shaun Quirk , Daniel Lessiter , Charlie Allen , James Ford , Alys Turnbull , Agnese Chiesa #transport #energy #councils #electricvehicles #charging

Save the Date! Partnership for Rhode Island and Compete RI, alongside the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank, and Climate Jobs Rhode Island, are excited to present the IRA Technical Assistance Summit: Unlock Federal Investments in Your Community on October 10th at the Graduate Providence Hotel. RSVP Here: https://bit.ly/3Zp0qFs The Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) has created a groundbreaking opportunity for communities to utilize federal funding to address infrastructure projects and community climate change initiatives. In addition to infrastructure projects, these funds can be used to lower operating costs for heating and cooling, address climate change and promote environmental justice initiatives, such as investing in renewable energy, facilitating 21st century school facilities, creating green spaces, and reducing carbon emissions. Elective Pay (aka “Direct Pay”) is one of the many tools included in the Inflation Reduction Act. One of the IRA’s most important provisions allows tax-exempt entities like local governments, cities, churches, schools, hospitals, public utilities, and community groups to receive credits directly - in the form of cash payments - to deploy renewable energy projects. Network and meet directly with technical assistance providers to learn more about this opportunity to include in your infrastructure project planning and financing considerations.