Sole traders and small and medium-sized enterprises in Aberdeen can now apply for grants to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint.

The Energy Pilot Scheme offers non-repayable grants of up to £10,000 to eligible businesses. These grants can be used to cover up to 50% of the cost of energy-saving upgrades.

By taking advantage of this scheme, businesses can lower their energy bills, contribute to Aberdeen's net zero goals, and enhance their overall sustainability.

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.”

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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 said: “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 are open now and will close on 15 December 2024. The Energy Pilot Scheme is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.