Energy grant scheme offers opportunities for contractors in the South East
You must forgive me for just addressing just those of you in the South East this week, but I really felt it worth highlighting the Energy Grant 500 Scheme, which is currently available for SMEs based in the SEEDA region. Any electrical contractors with customers in this region should really make sure that their customers are aware of the existence of this grant!
Through Business Link, the South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) and the ERDF Competitiveness Fund are helping businesses cut their energy and CO2 emissions by offering a grant of up to £500, loaning an energy meter, and offering ideas on changes that any company can make.
For one electrical contracting company company in Bognor Regis - Hendesigns - this has provided a good opportunity to help grow and promote their own business. The company provides free lighting surveys to businesses and offer advice on what changes they can make to cut their energy bills and their CO2. The company works with a wide range of products and its team undertake the installation.
Bob Henderson of Hendesigns, has used the Energy Grant 500 offer as a door opener for companies that are interested in cutting their bills but have not been sure of what to do, have not had the spare cash.
He has helped them look at their energy use and to complete the grant application form. "It’s been a great way to get companies to take action – they don’t need to use their own money, there are no strings attached and we’re seeing some great carbon savings. It has also really helped us to get our name out into the market. "I would recommend the grant to any business - whether they own their premises or not, as a great no-cost way to save money"
The grant is available for SMEs with less than 250 employees, and a turnover of less than £40 million. Qualifying SMEs must also have business premises, rented or owned, in the SEEDA region, and an annual energy spend of between £1,500 and £30,000pa.
Erica Russell, market development manager, Sustainable Business at Business Link Kent, explained to me what some companies have been doing with the grant: "72% have spent their money on upgrading lighting, 18% on heating and ventilation and 14% on building fabric," she said.
To find out more about the Energy Grant 500 scheme call Business Link on 0845 600 9 006 or e-mail info@businesslinksoutheast.co.uk
Suzanne Gill
Editor