For many local authorities, the challenge of delivering net zero is not a lack of vision – it’s bridging the gap between plans and investable projects.
On the latest episode of the Net Zero Living: Planning, Pipeline and Finance podcast – a must-listen for anyone working at the intersection of climate action, local innovation, and investment – BwB Executive Director and Global Head of Built Environment Finance, Christine Zhou joined Louise Wilson of Abundance Investment and host Poppy Maltby of Regen to discuss how local authorities can build investor-ready net zero project pipelines and attract private capital into place-based climate delivery.
Key insights shared by Christine include:
- Finance doesn’t have to be a ‘black box’. By developing shared rules of engagement and a common language, councils can build confidence and credibility with potential investors, making conversations clearer and more strategic.
- Long-term relationships matter. Investors look for continuity, reliable counterparties, and buy-in across key stakeholders at a local authority. It’s not just about one project but a long-term partnership that yields ongoing investment opportunities.
- Match the right finance to the right project. From citizen lending for smaller schemes to larger project finance for bigger infrastructure, Christine stresses that framing the project’s risk, timeline, and return profile is crucial for unlocking capital.
The conversation also draws on experience and examples from Innovate UK’s Net Zero Living programme, which has led the way in net zero-related finance and investment support for local authorities and building connections between the public sector and private investors.
To listen to the episode, follow the link.