The ERDF-funded Low Carbon Opportunities Programme is launching later this month!

The programme will offer free renewable energy audits or low carbon product, process or service innovation and development advice, as well as related grants, to small and medium sized enterprises in Worcestershire. SMEs can apply to either receive business support for renewable energy generation or for low carbon innovation advice.

The free business support for renewable energy generation will assess the best options for businesses with regard to renewable energy, including assessing technical feasibility and financial payback.

For businesses who are developing new low carbon technologies, processes or services, or who would like to diversify into this area, the free support will be tailored to meet the needs of that business. Specialist advice can be provided on assessing the marketplace, commercialisation, sourcing investment and developing prototypes, to name a few.

Following the business support, grants of up to £100,000 for capital projects and up to £50,000 for revenue projects can be applied for, covering up to 45% of eligible project costs (minimum grants of £20,000). Renewable energy projects cannot be double funded so either a project grant of up to 45% of costs can be applied for, or FITs/RHI can be sought.

In addition to the free business support and grants towards projects, the Low Carbon Opportunities Programme will include networking and events.

For more information and details of how apply please contact the Business Central team on 01905 677 888 or info@worcestershiregrowthhub.co.uk