BUSINESSES in Somerset can apply for a new grant to help them cut emissions and cut energy bills.

Somerset Council is rolling out the next phase of the Somerset Green Business Grant, which offers small and medium size businesses (SMEs) practical help and financial support to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

The schemes are funded from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Local Growth Fund.

Around £170,000 is being allocated to the scheme, with grants of between £2,000 and £15,000 available, with equal match-funding needed from applicants.

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Councillor Mike Rigby, the council’s lead member for economic development, planning and assets, said: “We want to support our local businesses to reduce the amount of energy they use. This is a ‘win-win’ situation which will lead to a lower carbon footprint while reducing outgoings through reduced energy costs.

“I would urge businesses who want to make energy savings and reduce greenhouse emissions to apply. There’s also support on offer via the Go Green scheme.”

The council is working with Net Zero specialist consultancy, Balanced Energy, to offer practical advice and support under the Go Green scheme, including:

• A fully funded, in-person energy audit
• A tailored sustainability plan
• New coverage of fleet and business travel emissions
• A clear, professional report they can use to show they’re on the journey to Net Zero

Ashley Webber, co-founder of Balanced Energy, said: “We know most small businesses care about this stuff and want to make a difference, they just don’t always know where to start. Go Green is about giving them a proper, funded route in.”

There will be a two-stage application process for grants – an expression of interest to confirm eligibility followed by, for those that meet the fund criteria, a full application.

For details on the scheme and how to apply, email greenbusinesssupport@somerset.gov.uk.