The energy efficiency scheme offers grants of up to £15,000 to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to audit their energy use and introduce energy-saving measures.

The scheme launched in February, with the energy efficiency team already working with 45 businesses to offer energy audits, technical consultancy and advice on saving energy and reducing the cost of bills.

The scheme is a partnership between Derbyshire County Counil, Derby City Council and the University of Derby and is part-funded with a grant from the European Regional Development Fund.

One of the first businesses to benefit is healthcare company Sumed International (UK) Ltd of Hadfield, near Glossop. The Graphite Way company received £14,375 toward the installation of solar panels which could potentially save more than £2,500 a year in energy bills.

Graham Collyer, Executive Chairman of Sumed, said:-

“Sumed is passionate about growing its healthcare manufacturing business in an environmentally responsible way. We achieved ISO 14001 Environmental Systems last year and we’re constantly looking for ways to improve our carbon footprint.

“The energy efficiency grant helped us to invest in banks of solar panels on the factory roof which will not only improve our environmental performance, but significantly reduce our energy costs.”

The firm, which supplies products and services to help maintain healthy skin, including pressure-relief beds and cushions, has already installed LED lighting so when they heard about the energy efficiency scheme they were keen to apply.

Mr Collyer added:

“The energy efficiency team were very professional and helped us get things right. I’d urge any businesses looking to reduce their energy bills to contact them.”

Councillor Tony King, Derbyshire County Counil cabinet member for economic development and regeneration,  said:-

“Small and medium-sized businesses are a vital part of Derbyshire’s economy and by supporting this project we are giving them access to state of the art equipment and technical expertise designed to improve efficiency and innovation.

“Energy efficiency grants are available to SMEs in Derbyshire and Derby which do 90% of their trade with other businesses and I urge companies that are interested in finding out more to get in touch.”

D2 Energy Efficiency

Free energy audits are available for businesses in Derby and Derbyshire to help to reduce business costs. Grants of up to £15,000 (and up to 65% of project cost) are available to eligible businesses to carry out energy efficiency improvements, which could include improved lighting, insulation, more efficient process equipment and renewable energy.

For more information see derby.gov.uk/d2ee or contact Gemma Sylva, Carbon Smart Team Leader  e: gemma.sylva@derby.gov.uk  t: 01332 642029

Find out if your business is eligible here.