Developing online mapping and analysis tools for the spatial integration of energy and environmental policies in England

Increased use of electricity generation from renewable sources has led to a growing recognition of the need to consider interactions between energy and environmental objectives. Addressing these planning challenges and potential trade-offs requires greater attention to the spatial dimension of infrastructure investment and planning, as well as their implications for landscapes. This paper presents online mapping tools developed to support local authorities in southeast England in their assessment of land use and other environmental factors. In particular, it examines differences in the relative importance of current siting constraints and highlights the need for better means of evaluating trade-offs if the current objectives for energy system transformation are to be achieved.