As we move through January at a fast pace, we are very excited to be launching our new Green Business Programme which runs for another three years.  

Opportunities in the Low Carbon Economy will continue to grow, with a major drive to  improve energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy.

Small to medium sized enterprises (SME) in Coventry & Warwickshire will continue to be supported to be more energy and resource efficient through our new grant funded programme. Benefits of the new programme include:

• Energy and resource efficiency grants - £1k-£50k (with 40% intervention)
• Free energy and resource efficiency audits to help identify energy, water and waste savings
• Continued free membership to the Green Business Network 
• Broadened the scope of audits to include advice on waste and water savings
• Access to other specialist support to enable growth and innovation
• Free events, workshops and 1:1 support

Come and find out how we can help your business grow at our launch event on 26 February at the Coventry Transport Museum.
Book here and further details.

To register your interest in the new programme please email the team at greenbusiness@coventry.gov.uk

Since the Green Business Programme started, local businesses have helped reduce carbon emissions in Coventry and Warwickshire considerably.

Our highlights include:

• 11,600 tonnes of CO2 savings
• £1.5m in grants were awarded to 73 small to medium sized businesses
• 60 new jobs have been created
• 88 SMEs have received non financial support
• 300 organisations have joined the Green Business Network

Visit our website to find out how the Programme can help your business with funding and energy & resource savings in 2019.

Business Support & Funding Opportunities for SMEs in Coventry & Warwickshire

26 February 2019, 8am-10.30am
Coventry Transport Museum

Following the success of our three year programmes which ran from 2016 - 2018, we are very excited to be launching our new programmes; Business Support, Green Business and Innovation. If you employ fewer than 250 people then you may be eligible for grant funding and support to grow your business. This event will:

• Outline access to new funding opportunities, including grants up to £100k 
• Provide information on how businesses can access specialist support 
• Showcase the successes of organisations who have already benefitted from our support 
• Enable you to meet the Programme and Growth Hub Teams

Book now so you don't miss out.

Government launches world leading plan to tackle air pollution

The Government has launched an ambitious new strategy this month, focusing on reducing air pollution and saving lives. Read full article...

Deal or no deal? Are you prepared for BREXIT?

What are the impacts on business if the UK leaves the EU without a deal? The CW Growth Hub is working closely with the Cities and Local Growth Unit at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy to understand its impact on business. Read more... There is also guidance offered through the gov.uk Brexit websites and a "No Deal" advice section.

Climate Change Levy Tax Changes

Businesses are reminded the rates for Climate Change Levy (CCL) will increase from April 2019.  The CCL for electric is increasing by 45% for 2019 compared to 2018 and will add nearly 2% costs to the annual electricity bill. The CCL for natural gas is increasing by 67% for 2019 compared to 2018 and will add around 3% costs to the annual natural gas bill.  Read full article...

The only way to avoid the increase in energy prices is to reduce your business’ energy consumption, and the Green Business Programme team will be able to help. Please email the team at greenbusiness@coventry.gov.uk for advice.

UK to scrap Feed-in Tariff scheme in April 2019

The current feed-in tariff (FiT) subsidy is set to end (for new solar registrations) after 31 March 2019.

Although the feed-in tariff scheme will close at the end of March 2019, businesses that already have FiT registrations will still continue to receive subsidy for the remainder of their agreement term, as will new registrations before the above date. This date has been set for both the export and generation tariff.

However, all is not lost as the Green Business Programme can provide grants of 40% to fund solar installations. Read more...