Businesses in Shropshire encouraged to go green to boost profits

Shropshire businesses are being given the chance to go green and improve profits through a new energy efficiency project, after the announcement of new funding.  

The RE:think Energy initiative will help more than 220 businesses based in Shropshire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire and Telford and Wrekin to discover more about the advantages of adopting energy efficient processes and the use of renewable energy sources.  

RE:think Energy is supported by over £200,000 from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) which is managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government, and matched by Shropshire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire, Telford and Wrekin Councils, and businesses.  

Interested business people can attend local events to hear more about the project and gain the opportunity to have an energy audit assessment completed for their company at a low cost.  

The audit provides guidance and suggestions for changes and possible renewable energy solutions that could result in reductions in energy bills, as well as improvements to their carbon footprint and overall competitiveness.  Results from the changes are then reviewed 12 months on.  

Councillor Mike Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for business support, said:

 “High and fluctuating energy costs are a serious problem for many small businesses affecting profitability, and in some cases the viability of the business.  With energy costs predicted to rise over the coming years, schemes such as this are vital if we are going to help businesses to survive and grow.” 

Councillor Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for carbon reduction and sustainability, said:

 “We want to help businesses understand the real benefits that energy changes can make, not just in the short term but to help ensure their future for years to come.”  

Norman Price, deputy chair of the West Midlands ERDF Local Management Committee said:

“Research has shown that improvements in energy efficiency and investment in renewables can result in real cost savings and benefits for businesses.  As the Government continues to cut the deficit, private sector growth is vital, particularly in the small and medium enterprise sectors.    

“I am delighted to be able to announce ERDF funding for this new project that will help businesses to grow and diversify, improving business performance and supporting a reduction in local area carbon emissions.”  

To find out more about the scheme click here or contact Delia Yapp at Shropshire Council on 01743 252597.