A scheme to help small and medium-sized businesses on a Wealden industrial estate improve their energy and environmental efficiency has been launched by the Conservative-run local authority.
The Unlock Diplocks’ Energy Future project – led by Wealden District Council – will initially see businesses on the Diplocks Industrial Estate in Hailsham offered free and impartial advice and guidance to enable them to unlock controllable, renewable and energy efficient technologies.
Businesses can book a free energy audit to identify energy efficiency or low carbon opportunities. Once a project is deemed eligible, the council and partners can help create bespoke specifications and a business case as well as access grant funding.
A 40 per cent contribution is available towards total project costs – up to a maximum of £10K per business – and so far, more than £7 million in European Regional Development Fund grants have been claimed by some 900 businesses.
An information session is being held by Hays Café in Diplocks Way on Wednesday 24 November between 9am-11am. Specialists will be on hand to give advice and vouchers for a hot drink and breakfast roll will be available.
Conservative councillor Roy Galley, the portfolio holder for climate change at Wealden District Council, said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for our small and medium businesses to unlock controllable, renewable and energy efficient technologies as well as save money.
“At a time when so many businesses are looking to save money after a tough 19 months, the Unlock Diplocks initiative will offer a chance to improve premises and the working environment, cut costs and reduce carbon emissions all at the same time.
“This is free impartial advice and guidance and I hope business owners will get on board with the scheme.”
