Business owners in east Suffolk are being encouraged to take advantage of a free energy support initiative which increases efficiency and reduces running costs.
The Business Energy Efficiency (BEE) programme has identified more than £235,000 of potential savings to 44 east Suffolk businesses so far.
Due to changes in European funding rules, retail businesses in Suffolk and Norfolk are now eligible for free support to help them become more energy efficient.
Five businesses in the area have received grant funding exceeding £29,000 and 1,082 tonnes of carbon has been saved.
Support can take a variety of different forms, including; grant funding to support implementation of energy efficient measures, help to gain Carbon Charter accreditation and help for businesses to develop travel plans to reduce their environmental impact.
It may also be an energy review by BEE experts assessing and identifying the most appropriate cost and energy saving opportunities.
Adrian Sampson, of Little Beck properties in Bungay, said: 'Within 48 hours of contacting BEE an advisor visited our site and made a comprehensive analysis of one of our buildings.
'This showed that by replacing our gas-fired boiler there would be significant savings in gas used each winter for our tenant and a well worthwhile reduction in CO2 emissions to the atmosphere. A win, win.'
The programme has also proved popular with Grant Hardy of Liquid 11 in Lowestoft.
He said: 'BEE Anglia offered great advice and practical help with our projects. I'd recommend any business take the time to see how BEE can help their business.'
Michael Ladd, Waveney's cabinet member for tourism and economic development was positive about the impact the programme. He said: 'Saving money through energy efficiency measures is a straightforward way to reduce costs and help businesses, and the local economy, to thrive.'
The BEE Anglia project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and is delivered through a partnership of Suffolk County Council, Norfolk County Council, Groundwork and NWES.
To check whether your business is eligible, please contact BEE Anglia on 01473 350370 or visit www.beeanglia.org
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