Somerset West and Taunton (SWT) and Sedgemoor District (SDC) councils are launching a new grant scheme to help small and micro businesses become greener as part of their commitment to reaching net zero emissions by 2030.
Carbon cutting grants worth up to £2,500 will be made available to businesses with up to nine employees to help fund energy reduction and net-zero transition projects.
There are many ways in which businesses can reduce their carbon footprint, from reducing waste by re-using and recycling to limiting energy use at night and replacing fuel-powered vehicles with electric cars and bikes.
Businesses will need to undertake eligible projects to claim back what they have spent, capped at £2,500.
Examples of eligible projects that could be funded through the grant scheme are:
- Installation of heating or lighting controls
- Replacement of equipment to more energy efficient equipment
- Replacing traditional lightbulbs with LED lighting
- Waste segregation solutions
- Electric transport solutions
- Efficient glazing
- Reuse and recycle projects
- Repairs cafes
- Staff training
- Carbon offsetting
As the scheme is being made available through the Hinkley Point C developer contributions for business support funding, applications from businesses within the West Somerset locality of Somerset West and Taunton will be prioritised.
SWT’s Executive Member for Economic Development, Planning and Transportation, Councillor Mike Rigby, said: “Most businesses are already climate-aware and committed to reducing their carbon footprint but it’s clear that support is needed to help futureproof their operations through green and energy efficiency projects. However, progress has been hindered due to a lack of funding and guidance which has been exacerbated by the recent energy hikes leaving many businesses struggling to cover the costs.
“This new grant scheme, delivered in partnership with Sedgemoor District Council, aims to complement the support already offered by the Somerset Energy Innovation Centre’s ‘Make It Net Zero’ programme by providing a first step for businesses on their journey towards net zero.
“I encourage all eligible businesses to apply for this funding as soon as the scheme launches. As well as the grants, businesses will be issued with information packs signposting them to further opportunities and available resources to help them succeed on their journey.”
Applications open Wednesday, 16 November and will close 8 December.
Businesses in Somerset West and Taunton should apply by visiting:
https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/energy-efficiency-grant
Businesses in Sedgemoor should apply by visiting:
https://www.sedgemoor.gov.uk/article/6838/Energy-Efficiency-Grant