Liverpool, the second most-filmed location in the UK after London, is setting a new standard for sustainable film production with an innovative "plug and play" energy network designed to power film and TV shoots as well as live events. This initiative aims to significantly reduce the industry's reliance on diesel generators by providing access to 100% renewable energy directly from the UK's electricity grid.
The city's plan includes the installation of feeder pillars across the city center, allowing production crews to seamlessly connect to renewable power sources. These pillars can also charge large-scale batteries, which can be transported to more remote filming locations, ensuring that even off-grid shoots can maintain sustainable practices. The project promises to create a cleaner production environment, drastically cutting emissions associated with traditional power generation on set.
This initiative builds on a smaller-scale model previously trialed in East London, led by Film London, and represents a collaboration between Liverpool and Ecotricity X Grid Faeries, an organization known for supplying green energy to major music festivals such as Glastonbury. Together, they will pilot the installation of these power pillars, potentially setting a global precedent for how cities can integrate sustainability into their creative industries.
The announcement coincides with Liverpool’s designation as the world’s first UN Accelerator City for Climate Action, an honor that underscores the city’s commitment to combating climate change through innovative urban solutions. The initiative is expected to attract both local and international productions eager to align with environmentally conscious practices.
Liverpool has already established itself as a major filming hub, having hosted high-profile productions such as “Peaky Blinders,” “The Responder,” “The Batman,” and the “Fantastic Beasts” franchise. By integrating green infrastructure into its film industry, the city is poised to become a global leader in sustainable production, setting an example for other film hubs worldwide.
This forward-thinking approach not only enhances Liverpool’s reputation as a premier filming location but also demonstrates how cities can balance cultural prominence with environmental responsibility. As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with its carbon footprint, Liverpool’s initiative offers a glimpse into a greener future for film and television production.
