Small Business Energy Grants: Are You Eligible and How To Apply
What Is An Energy Grant?
Energy grants are financial support for green choices from the government or energy suppliers. They encourage people and businesses to use eco-friendly technology for energy efficiency and renewable energy.
The government and energy suppliers offer energy grants to boost eco-friendly efforts. Supporting projects that save gas and electricity or use renewable sources benefits everyone by reducing environmental impact, cutting costs in the long run, and creating a sustainable energy future.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about energy grants for your business.
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Who Can Apply For Energy Grants?
Anyone can apply for energy grants - individuals, businesses, and groups. The rules might change for each grant.
Taking advantage of energy grants is a smart move because it means financial support for your energy-saving or renewable projects. It helps cut costs, makes sustainable choices more affordable, and contributes to a greener future for everyone. It’s a win-win situation - good for your pocket and the planet.
Government Programs For Business Energy
Government energy programs help small businesses go green by offering loans, grants, or cheaper energy-saving solutions.
They cover things like:
- Making operations more energy-efficient
- Helping with the costs of eco-friendly equipment
- Waste reduction
- Sustainable development
You can use the GOV.UK business finance and support finder to see what is available.
What Energy Grants/ Loans Are Available In 2024?
SME Energy Efficiency Scheme (SMEES)
From the GOV.UK website there is the SME Energy Efficiency Scheme (SMEES). It offers guidance and funding for businesses in the Tees Valley area looking to improve their energy efficiency. These areas include Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees.
Here’s what you can get:
- Free energy efficiency audits and expert advice to find ways to save energy.
- Access to online resources and workshops.
- Capital grants to help with projects cutting greenhouse gas emissions and lowering energy use. These grants cover up to 45% of your upfront costs, ranging from £10,000 to £100,000.
Horizon Europe Funding Program
There’s also the Horizon Europe funding program, who welcome all kinds of organisations globally. Funding is available for research and innovation in three main areas: Excellent Science, Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness, and Innovative Europe. Some calls allow solo applications, but many need a group of partner organisations, usually at least three from different countries.
How To Apply:
Reach out to your UK national contact point for guidance on applying for Horizon Europe funding and forming a group of 3 or more organisations.
What you can get funding for:
- Horizon Europe funding supports projects that involve cutting-edge research or new technologies.
- They also aid research training, development, and infrastructure improvement.
- Funding contributes to growth in sectors like advanced manufacturing, materials, biotechnology, ICT, nanotechnology, and space.
- They encourage private investment in research and address challenges like climate change, food security, or healthcare for an ageing population.
Do All Businesses Get Support With Energy Bills?
Not every business gets help with energy bills. Support varies based on business size, energy use, and government policies. Some businesses may qualify for assistance or incentives, so it’s wise to check local programs to see if you’re eligible for support.
What Is The Energy Bill Discount Scheme (EBDS)?
The UK government supports businesses during increased wholesale energy prices through the Energy Bill Discount Scheme (EBDS). This scheme automatically applies when wholesale energy prices exceed a specific threshold, allowing you to secure a favourable business energy deal and maximise your discount.
The discount equals the variance between the wholesale price threshold. No application is required, as your supplier automatically applies the discount. Currently, the maximum discount small businesses could receive for electricity is 1.961p per kWh and for gas 0.696p per kWh.
What Are Green Energy Grants?
Green energy grants are like investments from the government or groups give to encourage the use of eco-friendly energy. They help people, businesses, or communities to use things like solar panels, wind turbines, or other energy-saving devices.
These grants make it easier for businesses to be more environmentally friendly and reduce pollution.
The UK government can help you to find funding to make your business greener. There is currently almost £5 billion of funding available to help UK businesses become greener to reach net zero emissions by 2050.