Net Zero Business Grants Programme: Accelerating Decarbonisation in North Somerset

Introduction

The Net Zero Business Grants Programme is a pivotal initiative launched by North Somerset Council to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), this programme provides capital grants of up to £30,000 to eligible businesses, Community Interest Companies (CICs), and charities. These grants aim to facilitate decarbonisation projects, such as the installation of commercial solar PV panels, thereby contributing to a sustainable and eco-friendly business environment in North Somerset.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Net Zero Business Grants, applicants must meet specific criteria:

Business Size and Financial Criteria:

The applicant must be a micro, small, or medium-sized business with fewer than 250 employees.
The business should have a turnover equal to or less than £50 million, or a balance sheet total of equal to or less than £43 million, including any partnerships or linked enterprises.

Location:

The business must have a registered trading address in North Somerset. You can verify your local council through GOV.UK.

Preliminary Assessments:

A carbon survey report for the business premises is required.
A quote for the proposed energy efficiency measures is necessary.
For those applying for solar panels, a roof structural survey must be conducted.

Financial Commitment:

The grant request should be between £1,000 and £30,000.
Businesses must provide at least 30% of their own funds as a match to the grant (this requirement is waived for not-for-profit organisations).

Compliance and Permissions:

Written permission from the landlord, where relevant, must be included with the application.
The project must comply with current Building Regulations and obtain any necessary planning permissions.
The project must be completed within the funding timescales, which is before March 2025.

How to Apply

The application process for the Net Zero Business Grants is straightforward but requires thorough preparation. The grant is open for applications until 12pm on 30th June 2024. Here are the steps to apply:

Prepare Documentation:

Obtain a carbon survey with quantified carbon-saving recommendations.
Secure a quote for the energy efficiency works to be carried out.
Ensure all other required documentation, such as the roof structural survey (for solar panels), and written landlord permission, is ready.

Complete the Application:

Download and fill out the grant application form.
Submit the completed form and all required documents to climate.emergency@n-somerset.gov.uk.

For further information and assistance with the application process, businesses are encouraged to contact the North Somerset Council’s climate emergency team.

Conclusion

The Net Zero Business Grants Programme is a significant opportunity for SMEs in North Somerset to invest in decarbonisation projects. By offering financial support and promoting sustainable practices, North Somerset Council is helping local businesses reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort against climate change. Don’t miss this chance to make a positive environmental impact—apply now and lead the way towards a greener future.

For more information about the application process please contact the Excel Energy Ltd team on 020 3834 9440.