BARNSLEY businesses are being urged to apply for green grants so they can invest in eco-friendly initiatives which are up and running by the end of the year.
The Net Zero Barnsley programme, delivered by The Business Village in partnership with Barnsley Council, has put a summer call-out to attract more bids for decarbonisation grants.
These awards, which need to be match-funded, may be invested in capital developments worth thousands of pounds which help companies reduce carbon emissions.
Grants have already helped businesses invest in solar panels, smart lighting and more energy-efficient equipment, supporting greener working practices and sustainable transport options.
But the deadline looms for the 2024 funding package – and further applications need to come in soon to ensure the grant-backed initiatives are in place before the end of December.
Net Zero Barnsley business development manager Kevin Steel said: “Time is running out to apply for these very useful grants – just like time is running out for the planet.
“We hope as many companies as possible will get in touch soon to see if they are eligible for this funding support.
“We’d urge people not to put it off as decarbonisation grants ultimately help to build business resilience and save companies money, as well tackle climate change.”
The programme is part-funded by the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, from which Barnsley received £3.44m.
Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce operations director Shane Young is backing Net Zero Barnsley’s summer call to get more businesses on board.
The chamber has participated in the programme to learn more about how to upgrade its property portfolio and review working practices to lower its carbon footprint.
They are also investigating solar panels for their offices, with the support of a decarbonisation grant.
Shane added: “We endorse businesses becoming more sustainable and want to practice what we preach.
“Our aim is to pass on information and signpost members to sources of support such as Net Zero Barnsley.
“We’d encourage any business owner to take action now and get as much support as possible to invest in what they need to do to achieve sustainability targets.”
