1. Connecting locally, benefitting nationally Presentation to Members’ Meeting on Toolkit Seminar 11 th June 2013 Jennifer Webber, Director of External Affairs RenewableUK

2. The current media/political environment Heat on wind has abated somewhat Still some criticism of onshore in some media and amongst some politicians

3. The fight is increasingly local Disappointed communities looking for opportunity to flex muscle and a ready, well-coordinated supply of anti- groups Opportunities through new local plans – –New Pre-app consultation for onshore –More weighting to heritage and views –Or just delaying projects beyond viability Local pressure will be more important in run-up to 2015 Not just about specific projects – 101 MPs letter included politicians from urban constituencies

4. What is RenewableUK’s approach? Focus on Benefits –Tightened up messaging –Themes –Seeking to expand Action for Renewables website to provide public information on benefits Demonstrate localised support –A4R – Coordinators, specific projects –Polling in key areas

5. However…. Need palpable local demonstrations of benefits – not just reports and stats

6. And it works for MPs as well Best way to connect with MPs Information invaluable to our MP meetings on a national level

7. A package for success RenewableUK – national media and political Action for Renewables – engaging the public on the ground and via regional coordinators The industry –Pushing out RenewableUK messaging –Telling us your goodnews stories for themes –Using the toolkit

8. What is A4R’s role? Speaking with the public’s voice Proving that the majority support wind Easy campaigning opportunities Local grassroots activity

9. What A4R does We make it easy for the public to demonstrate real support for wind and renewables A network of campaigners supported by regional staff

10. How the toolkit helps A4R Nationally Good news aimed at the general public Locally Local, relevant information passed to nearby supporters Potential for support from public in local media You can help us identify where support is Practical, measurable public support for your sites.

11. How do members work with RenewableUK – a toolkit for success 3 Stages of Engagement Local Press Local MP Report back to RenewableUK

12. Contact Local Press Template for local press article Examples will be online in Member’s Section

13. Outcome – ‘Meet the Buyer’ at Agney Article in Kentish Express: 9 th May

14. Contact Local MP Ring constituency office – caseworker theyworkforyou.com Highlight value for local MP in terms of PR – creating jobs, local economic benefits Salutation: Explanation of your company: Detail of contract: Request e.g. to attend photocall/project opening etc: Contact details to get back to:

15. Feedback to RenewableUK Report the good news back to us (template available) We will keep the information on record Intention – database of success stories that can counter further opposition Help us to help you – and the project will snowball – more localised and national support!