South Cambridgeshire businesses switch on to energy savings

Since the Business Energy Efficiency (BEE) project launched in the Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough area in spring of this year, the scheme has worked with around 60 businesses in the region to identify potential cost savings of nearly £350,000.

This potential savings have been identified by working with small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to improve their energy efficiency. As well as significant cost savings, the opportunities identified by BEE advisors could also lead to an estimated reduction in CO2 emissions of 1,582 tonnes – the equivalent of 339 passenger vehicles being taken off the road for one year!

Using funding secured from the European Regional Development Fund, BEE offers a free audit service to help organisations identify energy saving opportunities. Businesses who then look to invest in capital projects to improve energy efficiency can access a grant scheme offering up to £20,000 in financial support.

One beneficiary, Terry Henderson from Automated Systems Group Ltd, based in Bar Hill near Cambridge, explains: “It has been a pleasure working with the Business Energy Efficiency team, resulting in a much improved working environment and reduced carbon footprint.”

Following advice from the Business Energy Efficiency advisor that visited their site, Automated Systems Group Ltd replaced its traditional light fittings with LEDs leading to an instant reduction in energy consumption, and carbon emissions whilst cost savings are expected to be approximately £2,500 in the first year alone.

Prior to commissioning the LED lighting project, Automated Systems Group Ltd was successful in applying for a grant from Business Energy Efficiency and received £5,246 (25% of total costs) towards the improvement works.

Other businesses across the region have also been taking action to improve their energy efficiency and save money. However, BEE’s grant funding pot is limited and only available for a fixed period of time, so those interested in securing financial support to reduce their energy costs are advised to get in touch sooner rather than later so they don’t miss out!

To find out more and to register your interest, please visit www.beecp.co.uk, email info@beecp.co.uk or call 01733 882549.

The BEE project is being delivered by the eco charity Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT), in partnership with Groundwork and Nwes.