BEE Cambridgeshire and Peterborough identifies over half a million pounds in cost savings for local
Help is available for small businesses across the East of England to take advantage of the cost savings associated with being more energy efficient. The EU-funded Business Energy Efficiency (BEE) programme was launched last year and is enabling small businesses to take positive action to reduce the impact of future energy price rises.
To date the project has supported 97 businesses and identified cost savings of £559,783, and carbon savings of 2,658 tonnes. That’s the carbon saving equivalent of 790 flights from London to Sydney!
Using funding secured from the European Regional Development Fund, BEE offers a free audit service to help eligible businesses identify energy saving opportunities throughout their operations. These potential savings are identified during the audit, which takes place at the company’s business premises. Businesses then have the opportunity to invest in eligible energy-efficient capital projects, with access to a grant scheme offering up to £20,000 in financial support.
One beneficiary, Vito Ronzano from Wilcox Commercial Vehicles Ltd, based in Market Deeping, Lincolnshire, explains:
“The grant process has been simple and straightforward, with help along the way from the grants team. I would recommend that other businesses apply for funding to help with their energy saving projects through BEE.”
Following advice from the BEE advisor that visited their site, Wilcox Commercial Vehicles Ltd replaced its traditional light fittings with LEDs, updated their office heating system and replaced their windows, leading to a reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions, whilst cost savings are expected to be over £5,517 in the first year alone.
Prior to commissioning the improvement project, Wilcox Commercial Vehicles Ltd was successful in applying for a grant from Business Energy Efficiency and received over £9,000 (25% of total costs) towards the works.
Many other businesses across the region have also been taking action to improve their energy efficiency and save money. However, BEE’s grant funding pot is limited and only available for a fixed period of time, so businesses are recommended to get in touch sooner rather than later!
You can find out whether your business is eligible and to register your interest on our website, or get in touch with us directly via email info@beecp.co.uk or call 01733 882549.
