County Durham Risks Losing Out: The Cost of Anti-Green Policies

County Durham has long been recognised for its efforts to tackle climate change, with award-winning projects and millions saved through energy efficiency. However, recent decisions by Reform UK at Durham County Council—and similar attitudes at the national level—are putting these achievements, and future opportunities, at risk.

What’s Changed?

Since Reform UK took control of the council, they have:

• Scrapped the climate emergency declaration and net zero pledge
• Cancelled a major solar panel scheme that would have saved £77,000 a year and cut carbon emissions by 60 tonnes annually
• Halted applications for new green grants for public buildings, including schools and hospitals
• Stopped the purchase of electric vehicles for council staff
• Shifted funding priorities away from green initiatives allegedly towards social care.

What Are We Losing?

1. Millions in Government and Private Funding

Central government offers grants for insulation, solar panels, and energy upgrades. By not applying, Durham is missing out on direct funding and long-term savings. Private investors—such as pension funds, banks, and specialist climate investment firms—are increasingly looking to support local net zero projects. Councils that signal a lack of commitment to climate action are less likely to attract this investment, which also supports local jobs and supply chains.

2. Green Jobs and Skills

Climate action plans create training and employment in sectors like solar installation, building retrofits, and energy management. Cancelling these projects means fewer local job opportunities and less upskilling for residents. Previous climate action in Durham reportedly saved over £13 million in one year and supported a “low carbon team” that generated jobs and grant funding.

3. Community and Social Enterprise Funding

Many climate grants are available for community-led projects, such as local energy cooperatives, tree planting, and sustainable transport. These often come with employment and training opportunities, especially for young people and those in deprived areas.

4. Economic Growth and Recognition

Investing in green infrastructure—like solar farms, building retrofits, and EV charging—not only brings in grant money but also stimulates the local economy through procurement, construction, and ongoing maintenance jobs. Councils that lead on climate action often receive national recognition, attracting further funding, partnerships, and skilled workers.

Projects at Risk

Several local projects are now threatened or have already been cancelled:

• Solar Panel Scheme: Cancelled, losing annual savings and risking compensation payments.
• Business Energy Efficiency Project (BEEP): At risk if green funding is deprioritised.
• Horden Minewater Geothermal Heating Project: At risk if council support is withdrawn.
• Other renewable energy and sustainability projects (e.g., Morrison Busty, Tanfield Lea Solar Farm, Woodland Primary School retrofits): May be reviewed, scaled back, or cancelled.

The Bigger Picture

Opposition councillors and campaigners argue that scrapping green initiatives puts Durham at a disadvantage for future funding and economic growth, as well as for attracting skilled workers and businesses interested in sustainability. Councils not even applying for climate funding are guaranteed to miss out, while others are still securing millions for local projects.

Private sector investment is increasingly looking for local authority partners with credible climate plans. Without these, Durham risks being bypassed for both funding and job creation.

Conclusion

By cancelling or not pursuing climate and net zero initiatives, Durham under Reform UK is missing out on a wide range of government and private funding, as well as local employment and economic opportunities tied to the green transition. This includes not just direct grants, but also jobs, skills development, and the broader economic benefits of being seen as a leader in sustainability.

If County Durham wants to continue benefiting from the green transition, it must reconsider its stance and re-engage with climate action—before these opportunities are lost for good.