As the UK’s public sector accelerates its response to climate change, local authorities are increasingly recognised as key players in the national net zero transition. Among them, East Riding of Yorkshire Council is demonstrating how a strategic, data-led approach can unlock meaningful progress even in the face of limited resources.
In a recent Customer Spotlight interview, TEAM Energy explored how the Council is using energy data to drive smarter decisions across its estate. The conversation revealed a refreshing perspective: that the journey to net zero doesn’t begin with technology or funding it begins with insight.
Stephen Fisher, Principal Asset Officer in the Council’s energy team, proposed a powerful idea: “The first step in an organisation’s net zero : data analysis and benchmarking.” His point is simple but transformative. Many organisations already hold vast amounts of energy data, but without proper analysis, that data remains untapped potential. By benchmarking performance across buildings, councils can identify where interventions will have the greatest impact ensuring every pound spent delivers maximum value.
This approach is particularly relevant in today’s climate. With funding pressures mounting and expectations rising, public sector organisations must be more strategic than ever. The ability to prioritise action based on real performance data isn’t just smart is essential.
Our monitoring and targeting software Sigma is designed to support exactly this kind of thinking. Sigma enables organisations to centralise and analyse energy data, benchmark building performance, and produce accurate carbon reports. For councils like East Riding, it is a tool that turns complexity into clarity helping them make confident decisions that align with both environmental goals and financial constraints.
But what makes East Riding’s story stand out is not just their use of data, it is their mindset. They are not waiting for perfect conditions or unlimited budgets. They are acting now, using the tools and insights available to them to make measurable progress.
The full interview offers a deeper look into the Council’s strategy, including how they are engaging stakeholders, navigating funding challenges, and embedding sustainability into their operations. It is a compelling read for any organisation looking to strengthen its energy management approach.
As the UK moves closer to its 2030 and 2050 climate targets, stories like East Riding’s remind us that leadership is not about having all the answers it is about asking the right questions. Those questions often start with data.
To explore how your organisation can harness energy data for smarter decision-making, read the full Customer Spotlight interview and learn more about Sigma Energy Management Software.