Another 1,300 businesses across the West Midlands are to get a share of £15m of new funding to cut their energy usage and bills, and help the region get to net zero by 2041, Mayor Richard Parker has announced.
The Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) pilot scheme is being led by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ). It is one of a number of regional schemes that have already helped 2,400 businesses to identify measures to decarbonise and reduce energy demand, with match funded grant support available to implement actions.
If fully implemented, they would save £16m a year in gas and electricity costs and reduce their annual carbon emissions by 34,000 tonnes – the equivalent to the amount produced by 20,000 cars each year. The new funding will save businesses a further £8m in annual energy costs and cut 17,000 tonnes of carbon.
SMEs can apply for a free energy efficiency audit leading to an opportunity to secure between £1,000 and £100,000 of match funding to implement recommended measures that can reduce their energy demand.
This could include supporting investment in new machinery and equipment, improved manufacturing processes, or LED lighting, solar power, heat pumps, and insulation.
“High energy costs are holding businesses back. That’s why I’m taking action to make them cleaner, greener and more competitive.
Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker
We’ve already helped more than 2,000 businesses cut millions of pounds off their gas and electricity bills and reduce their carbon emissions thanks to this expert advice and funding. I’m helping to power up businesses so they can invest in their own future and take on more staff. That’s part of my plan for a stronger and more prosperous future for everyone.“
BEAS is being delivered by the West Midlands Combined Authority and DESNZ through Business Growth West Midlands in partnership with Aston University, Coventry City Council, Black Country Industrial Cluster, Birmingham City Council, Warwickshire County Council, Staffordshire County Council, Worcestershire County Council, and Pro Enviro.
