A powerful case for action

Brexit, pandemic, war in Europe and the rising cost of doing business crisis. Companies in all sectors are facing up to those challenges on a daily basis.

One of the biggest of those issues is the cost of energy. And in a new feature reporting on the green economy, Lancashire Business View takes a long-hard look at the government’s energy security strategy – published in response to the challenges the country faces.

The plan is strong in its long-term ambitions and as we report, Lancashire businesses are poised to play a significant role in the work to create a domestic low carbon energy industry.

If it delivers, up to 95 per cent of the nation’s electricity could come from low-carbon sources by 2030. It includes policies on nuclear, wind, hydrogen, solar, oil and gas, and heat pumps as sources of energy production.

However, industry experts believe the lack of any mention of energy efficiency and support for energy reduction in the strategy is a major missed opportunity.

And there is still the pressing problem of rising power bills today – and the impact Lancashire businesses are already feeling.

One source of energy that shows no sign of diminishing is the determination that drives the county’s young people in business.

From woodcraft to the Internet of Things, Lancashire’s young people are making a real impact in the business world in a whole range of sectors and in our Sub 36 showcase we highlight just some of the talent at work.

Our latest issue also features an in-depth interview with Dave Fishwick of Bank of Dave fame. He shares some of his tips on starting a new business, talks about the Netflix film being made of his life story and speaks with passion about the impact of late payment on small businesses.

Lancashire’s star is shining brightly in the film and TV world. The county is becoming increasingly popular as a filming location, and in our look at the creative sector we reveal all the economic benefits that come from being in front of the camera.

Issue 104 also puts the spotlight on Burnley and the work that has begun to make its nationally acclaimed Bondholders group even more relevant to its members and the community.