Applications for the Energy Reduction Programme are open until the 21 April.
Small businesses in Tower Hamlets are set to benefit from £185K investment from the council, through the launch of a new free programme that aims to help them reduce their energy costs and environmental impact.
Applications for the programme are now open and, if successful upon application, business owners can expect to be paired with an experienced energy consultant who will complete an on-site energy audit and provide a tailored reduction plan.
Alongside the expert, businesses will be able to join interactive workshops to learn tips on how to make their business greener.
Business owners that follow the plan and make positive steps in reducing their energy use will be welcome to apply for a £2,500 grant to be used towards the installation of energy-reducing technology.
The council has partnered with BetterFutures+, a Greater London Authority funded scheme which aims to support London’s transition to net zero, to deliver this pilot programme. It aims to help 50 businesses reduce their energy consumption by 25%, and, if successful, it may be extended, and more businesses will be invited to apply.
Local businesses were invited to the Town Hall to meet with Councillor Chowdhury, BetterFutures+ and officers from the council's Business Growth service to hear more about the programme and application process.
Mayor Lutfur Rahman said:
“I am delighted that we are able to launch the Energy Reduction Programme. This is a time when increased energy prices and the cost-of-living crisis are creating an incredibly challenging environment for our business owners to thrive. It is crucial that we equip our SMEs with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle these issues.
“There are 16,855 businesses in Tower Hamlets. The majority of these (89%) are ‘micro’ enterprises with less than nine employees. Our local businesses and markets are the lifeblood of the community, and we want them to prosper alongside the international business hubs at Canary Wharf, Whitechapel, and the City Fringe."
Lead Member for Jobs, Skills and Growth, Abu Chowdhury, added:
“This programme helps to remove the barriers our local businesses come up against when trying to reduce energy bills and implement sustainable practices. Those involved in the programme will gain free access to an expert energy consultant, who can provide a comprehensive company audit and follow-up reduction plan. Upon completion of this, businesses will be able to apply for a £2,500 grant to install energy-reducing technology.
“As ever, we have made sure the training we have included is accessible and interactive. I strongly encourage all businesses in our borough to make the most of this opportunity.”
To apply, your business must be registered and trading in Tower Hamlets. You can read the full entry requirements and submit an application, here: https://betterfutures.london/tower-hamlets-energy-reduction-programme/.
If you need any help with the application, you can speak to the Tower Hamlets’ Business Growth Team at business.support@towerhamlets.gov.uk.
Posted on Tuesday 11th April 2023