Somerset companies are being offered financial support to reduce carbon emissions as part of an initiative by the county council.
The local authority's Somerset Green Business Grant offers small-and-medium-sized firms money - as well as practical help - to cut energy consumption.
The schemes are funded by the Government’s Ƶ Shared Prosperity Fund and the Local Growth Fund.
Some £170,000 is being allocated to the scheme, with grants of between £2,000 and £15,000 being made available. Equal match-funding is needed from applicants, Somerset Council has said.
There is a two-stage application process - an expression of interest to confirm eligibility followed by, for firms that meet the fund criteria, a full application.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset Council’s lead member for economic development, planning and assets, said: “We want to support our local businesses to reduce the amount of energy they use. This is a ‘win-win’ situation which will lead to a lower carbon footprint while reducing outgoings through reduced energy costs.
“I would urge businesses who want to make energy savings and reduce greenhouse emissions to apply. There’s also support on offer via the Go Green scheme.”
The council is working with net zero specialist consultancy Balanced Energy to bolster the grants with practical advice and support under the Go Green scheme, including:
- a fully funded, in-person energy audit;
- a tailored sustainability plan;
- new coverage of fleet and business travel emissions;
- a professional report they can use to show they’re on the journey to net zero.
Ashley Webber, co-founder of Balanced Energy, said: “We know most small businesses care about this stuff and want to make a difference, they just don’t always know where to start. Go Green is about giving them a proper, funded route in.”
For details on the scheme and how to apply, email greenbusinesssupport@somerset.gov.uk.
