Independent businesses in Stone could soon benefit from a new package of grants aimed at helping them cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
Stafford Borough Council has launched the Resilient Stafford Grant, which offers between £5,000 and £30,000 to support projects that improve energy efficiency. The scheme is open to micro, small and medium-sized businesses that have been running for at least 12 months.
What the grant can cover
Stone firms will be able to apply for funding to cover a wide range of improvements, including:
- Energy-efficient lighting
- Replacement boilers
- Heat pumps
- Solar panels
Businesses will need to demonstrate how their projects will deliver measurable energy savings.
Wider £250,000 package
The new grant forms part of a £250,000 support package that also includes:
- The Climate Change Action Project delivered by Keele University, helping 50 organisations develop energy strategies and explore cost savings
- Carbon Literacy Training for businesses across the borough, delivered by The Growth Hub
Councillor Tony Pearce, Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Nature Recovery, said:
“Climate change and nature recovery is not just a council priority, it should be everyone’s priority. What we do, or don’t do now, is going to have a direct impact on future generations. I am really pleased we have launched more initiatives to help local businesses introduce more energy efficient practices and projects which is good for the planet and is good for business.”
Local businesses already leading the way
The council says many companies across the borough have already taken steps to become more sustainable with its support. Examples and case studies can be viewed at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/sustainable-stafford.
Stone businesses considering an application can find eligibility details and how to apply at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/resilient-stafford-grant.
Background
Last month the council committed to bringing forward its net zero target for its own operations to 2035. The new funding package is part of a broader push to help the whole borough – including Stone – take meaningful steps towards cutting carbon emissions.
