A new energy pilot scheme has launched in Aberdeen to aid the city’s sole traders and small and medium-sized businesses.
Grants can be applied for to help reduce energy bills, lower carbon footprint, and improve overall sustainability.
The energy pilot scheme offers non-repayable grants of up to £10,000 to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises. The grants will cover up to 50% of the total project cost, providing businesses with the financial support needed to undertake energy-saving upgrades.
Aberdeen City Council finance and resources convener, councillor Alex McLellan, said, “These grants can make a big difference to small and medium-sized business across Aberdeen, while supporting the city’s goal towards net zero, so I’d encourage eligible firms to apply.”
The Energy Pilot Scheme is being administered by Aberdeen City Council in collaboration with SCARF, a charity and social enterprise delivering a range of services to householders, communities, and businesses throughout the region including free and impartial energy saving advice to help people lower their fuel bills and carbon emissions.
SCARF CEO David Mackay added, “We are proud to support Aberdeen City Council with the delivery of this much needed project. Business across Scotland have been through a tough time with the extra energy costs. It is great that the council has created this unique programme to support SME’s who are responsible for employing over 33,000 people in the city. This fund will enable businesses to improve their energy efficiency, reduce consumption and costs.”
Eligible projects under the Energy Pilot Scheme may include, but are not limited to:
- Renewable energy installations such as solar panels, biomass boilers, or heat pumps;
- Energy efficient equipment including new heating systems, LED lighting, and energy-efficient machinery;
- Building improvements such as insulation, new doors, windows, or other measures that enhance energy efficiency;
- Other carbon-reducing initiatives including any other activities that can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Applications open today (October 1) and close on 15 December 2024. More information and how to apply is on the SCARF website.
