SQW Consulting, with SQW Energy and Cambridge Econometrics, has been commissioned by the North West Development Agency (NWDA) to undertake an assessment of the vulnerability of the key sectors in the North West to depletion of oil reserves and to oil price volatility. The findings of this study will inform the region’s strategy development (notably the forthcoming Single Regional Strategy) and future RDA investment programmes.

For the purposes of this study, they have used a model-based approach to assess the reliance and exposure of each of these sectors to oil and other energy inputs and their costs. In this model, exposure may result from: (1) intensity of direct energy use within the sector (2) use of oil as a feedstock in sectoral processes, (3) use of oil-based products by the sector, and/or (4) its reliance on transport.

They would greatly appreciate your views on the following (please see attached survey):

• whether the findings of this analysis are in accord with your experience on the ground

• the impact on your business now and in the future of oil depletion and price volatility

• the vulnerability of your business to these factors taking into account the options you have for mitigating adverse effects (such as feedstock or materials substitution).

SQW will present a summary of its findings for the sector for you to comment upon; followed by a small number of feedback questions for your consideration. They would be grateful if you could respond directly via email by Monday 21st September 2009 to mbond@sqw.co.uk