UK Power Networks, Cadent, and SGN have launched a pioneering ‘Common Ask Template’ to simplify data sharing, cut administrative burdens, and fast-track local net zero infrastructure projects across the UK, supporting the nation’s ambitious climate goals.
Three of the UK’s leading energy networks—UK Power Networks, Cadent, and SGN—have collaboratively developed a pioneering ‘Common Ask Template’ designed to streamline administrative processes and accelerate the delivery of local net zero projects. This template is reported to be the first of its kind, enabling local authorities to provide critical information to energy networks just once, using a simple, unified format. Serving over 25 million people, these networks aim to reduce repetitive paperwork and free up valuable council staff time by eliminating the need for multiple, differently formatted data requests.
This initiative is already gaining traction, with Hounslow Council adopting the template and an additional five local authorities within Greater London Authority’s Outer East London Local Area Energy Planning (LAEP) using it. The shared format is expected to facilitate earlier and more efficient planning and installation of essential infrastructure projects, such as electric vehicle chargers and low-carbon heating systems. Councillor Katherine Dunne, portfolio holder for Climate, Environment and Transport at the London Borough of Hounslow, highlighted the efficiencies gained, noting the simplified data-sharing process saves time and reduces resource strain for councils, while reinforcing UK Power Networks’ commitment to improving customer experience.
Lynne McDonald, head of local net zero at UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO), emphasised the reduction in administrative burdens for local authorities, allowing them to focus more on delivering tangible climate benefits. Meanwhile, Lorna Millington, future networks manager at Cadent, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving the UK’s net zero ambitions by 2050, calling the project an exemplar of shared insight and partnership in the energy transition.
This Common Ask Template is designed for universal application across councils, from those in the earliest stages of climate planning to those with advanced energy modelling capabilities, supporting local net zero initiatives through to 2050. It aligns with broader efforts by these networks to modernise and decarbonise UK energy infrastructure. For instance, SGN’s ‘Gas Goes Green’ programme is pioneering the repurposing of existing gas infrastructure to carry hydrogen and biomethane, aiming for a cost-effective transition to net zero gas networks. The company’s recent trial using advanced pressure control demonstrated significant methane emissions reductions, an important step in curbing greenhouse gases from traditional gas grids.
Moreover, SGN and Cadent are actively engaged in the Capital Hydrogen project, which seeks to convert London’s gas supply to hydrogen over the next two decades, supporting the city’s target of net zero emissions by 2030. This ambitious vision predicts the need for at least 40 terawatt-hours of hydrogen by 2050 to decarbonise heating, transport, and power generation across the capital.
Innovation funding also plays a critical role in these efforts. National Grid recently secured over £15 million from Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund to support projects designed to enhance regional energy planning and maximise network capacity for low-carbon technologies. SGN itself has previously received funding to pursue innovation in hydrogen integration, ultra-rapid EV charging infrastructure, and digital safety enhancements for gas networks.
Together, these coordinated initiatives, including the new Common Ask Template, represent a strategic, multi-faceted approach to overcoming administrative and technical barriers. The collaboration between major gas and electricity networks highlights a collective commitment to advancing the UK’s climate goals through practical, scalable solutions that empower local authorities and streamline the path to a cleaner energy future.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
10
Notes:
The narrative was published on September 19, 2025, and is the earliest known publication of this information. No earlier versions with different figures, dates, or quotes were found. The content appears original and not recycled from other sources. The report is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. The inclusion of updated data alongside the new template suggests a recent development.
Quotes check
Score:
10
Notes:
The direct quotes from Councillor Katherine Dunne, Lynne McDonald, and Lorna Millington are unique to this report. No identical quotes were found in earlier material, indicating original content.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from Industrial News, a publication that appears to be a single-outlet news source. While it provides detailed information, the lack of broader coverage from other reputable organisations raises some uncertainty about the report’s reliability.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims about the ‘Common Ask Template’ and its adoption by Hounslow Council and other local authorities are plausible and align with known initiatives by UK Power Networks, Cadent, and SGN. The language and tone are consistent with official communications from these organisations. However, the absence of coverage from other reputable outlets suggests a need for further verification.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): OPEN
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The report presents new information about the ‘Common Ask Template’ initiative, with direct quotes and specific details that appear original. However, the lack of coverage from other reputable organisations and the single-source nature of the publication introduce some uncertainty. Further verification from additional sources is recommended to confirm the accuracy and impact of this development.
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