Find business energy efficiency grants and schemes

The National Energy Foundation YouGen website offers free, independent advice on efficient energy usage and installing sources of renewable energy. Use their Find an installer search directory to find trusted companies in your area who specialise in renewable energy technology

The Energy Savings Trust website lists example case studies, energy efficiency resources and runs events to help businesses make informed choices, including supply chain advice.

The Smallbusiness.co.uk website also provides a range of online energy efficiency news for small business owners, including start-ups.

You can check GOV.UK’s Energy Technology List if you are planning new plant equipment. It covers independently verified energy-efficient products such as boilers, lighting, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment.

Then look at business-finance support schemes offered by suppliers and the government that may be able to pay for improvements. Some specialist agencies or charities may run funding and support schemes too. Ask around for information in your business networks.

Many government schemes offer loans, grants or subsidised energy-saving measures to support small businesses with reducing their impact on the environment. These normally help with:

• energy efficiency measures – such as revising production processes
• the upfront costs of investing in energy-efficient equipment 
• waste management and reduction initiatives
• sustainable development initiatives.

Start by searching the GOV.UK business finance and support finder.

Ask your local council if they provide energy efficiency funding or sustainable business growth grants. You will normally need to submit a business case to apply. Some initiatives may also be eligible for business innovation funding. 

See if you can get paid to generate your own renewable power and heat through the national Smart Export Guarantee scheme. 

The government is also proposing two new energy efficiency schemes from 2022 to replace the current domestic and non-domestic renewable heat incentives.

• Clean Heat Grant: upfront capital funding for households or businesses that integrate green heating technologies such as heat pumps and in certain circumstances biomass. 
• Green Gas Support Scheme: funding support for biomethane injection to increase the amount of green gas in the national grid.

Ofgem is the intended schemes administrator. We will publish more information as the Government progresses with its proposals. Visit our Environmental and Social schemes area to find out more.

Energy companies may offer small business energy-efficiency schemes or grants. 

Eligibility criteria and availability will vary, depending on things like:

• the size of your business
• your location
• your business sector.

Contact your supplier to find out what they offer.

Try free grants search services, like Grants Online. 

Let's Talk has information on business funds some charities offer and how to apply.  

WRAP may offer grants and investments supporting business waste reduction costs.