Electricity North West has become the world’s first Carbon Literate power network operator after receiving a Bronze accreditation at the Carbon Literacy Awards.

Recognised by The Carbon Literacy Trust for its contribution to this globally unique climate change project, Electricity North West has demonstrated increased commitment to acting on climate change, supporting its Carbon Literate staff in taking action and sharing knowledge and best practice around Carbon Literacy within the sector and region.

The Carbon Literacy award follows the launch of Electricity North West’s transformative decarbonisation plans at Andy Burnham’s Green Summit on 25th March. Entitled; ‘Leading the North West to Zero Carbon’, the plan reinforces Electricity North West’s position as a ‘pioneer’ organisation engaged by Manchester City Council to help achieve the zero carbon 2038 ambitions.

Peter Emery, CEO at Electricity North West, commented: “We are committed to leading the North West to zero carbon with significant investments made that will help drive and deliver change through innovative energy initiatives. We’re therefore honoured to have received this award.”

Electricity North West already invests £1m a day in the region’s power network, and as part of its plan to lead the North West to zero carbon, it is committing an additional £63.5m over the next four years.

With electricity demand in the North West expected to double by 2050, Electricity North West’s decarbonisation plan will be a critical component in delivering a dynamic electricity network to meet these demands while remaining focused on its zero carbon target.

Presented by Cllr Alex Ganotis, Leader of Stockport Council and Chair of the Greater Manchester Low Carbon Hub, and Dr Ali Abbas, Chair of The Carbon Literacy Trust, the awards are the pinnacle of The Carbon Literacy Project, which enables employers, educators and communities to empower their people to act on climate change. It has been recognised by the UN and works across seven nations from its base in Manchester.

For further information about Electricity North West’s regional decarbonisation strategy, visit: www.enwl.co.uk/zerocarbon