Image
The programme, funded through the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), offers capital grants of up to £30,000 to eligible small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), Community Interest Companies (CICs), and charities within North Somerset.
Why Net Zero Business Grants?
This grant programme helps to reduce carbon emissions and empowers local businesses and residents to adopt environmentally sustainable practices.
Since April 2023, six businesses have benefitted from grant funding and 29 surveys outlining possible carbon saving projects have been completed or are in progress.
One such organisation is The Strawberry Line Café and Cycle Project, a not-for-profit providing vocational opportunities to young people with learning disabilities.
They used grant funding to replace their electric hob with an induction hob to reduce electricity usage and associated scope 2 emissions, enhancing both safety and efficiency.
Sally Wilcock, from The Strawberry Line Café, said: “Having a cleaner, cooler and safer kitchen has impressed our staff team, in turn benefitting the young people who join us for learning placements. We have been able to amend our kitchen risk assessments positively. Our customer feedback has been very favourable too, with the air being clearer [in] the café.”
How can organisations benefit?
The grant supports a variety of projects aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Previous projects have included the installation of LED lighting, solar panels, air source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation, and insulation.
Given the climate crisis and ongoing cost-of-living increase, works that can reduce energy bills play a key role in helping businesses to focus on long-term cost savings. Aside from reducing operational costs and meeting consumer demand for sustainability, funded projects also contribute to long-term environmental preservation for communities.
Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Climate, Waste and Sustainability, said: “It’s excellent to see local businesses using our Net Zero Business Grants to help work towards reducing North Somerset’s carbon emissions.
“There are lots of ways to do your bit to reduce your carbon footprint and help tackle the climate emergency, which will work to improve overall health and wellbeing, create community resilience, and reduce financial impacts. Find out more at: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/climateaction".
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Spatial Planning, Placemaking and Economy, said: “I hope that the success of many local businesses in reducing their carbon footprint via our Net Zero Business Grant programme inspires more to get involved during this second round of funding.
“The UKSPF is part of our ongoing efforts to both improve the health and appeal of our area.”
How to apply
To apply for the capital grant, businesses must have a carbon survey with quantified saving recommendations and quotes for proposed energy efficiency works. The application form can be found here: https://innorthsomerset.co.uk/ukspf/year-2/net-zerobusiness-grants-programme/ and completed applications should be emailed to climate.emergency@n-somerset.gov.uk by 12 noon on Sunday, 30 June 2024.
Match funding of up to 70% by North Somerset Council is available, dependent on the size of the business, the location and type of project.
For more information and inquiries, please contact climate.emergency@n-somerset.gov.uk.
For more information about the UKSPF programme in North Somerset, visit https://innorthsomerset.co.uk/ukspf/