New initiative urges Lichfield and Burntwood firms to go green

Nov 25, 2011 by Ross

Lichfield and Burntwood businesses are being given the chance to go green and improve profits through a new energy efficiency project.

The RE:think Energy initiative will help more than 220 businesses based in Staffordshire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin to discover more about the advantages of adopting energy efficient processes and the use of renewable energy sources.

The initiative is supported by over £200,000 from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Staffordshire County Councillor Mark Winnington, cabinet member for environment and assets, said: “High energy costs are a problem for many small businesses and can affect their viability.

“This project will support businesses in Staffordshire and will boost our growing private sector. “

The RE:think audit provides guidance and suggestions for changes and possible renewable energy solutions that could result in reductions in energy bills, as well as improvements to their carbon footprint and overall competitiveness. Results from the changes are then reviewed 12 months on.

Norman Price, deputy chair of the West Midlands ERDF Local Management Committee, added: “Research has shown that improvements in energy efficiency and investment in renewables can result in real cost savings and benefits for businesses.

“As the Government continues to cut the deficit, private sector growth is vital, particularly in the small and medium enterprise sectors.

“I am delighted to be able to announce ERDF funding for this new project that will help businesses to grow and diversify, improving business performance and supporting a reduction in local area carbon emissions.”

To find out more about the scheme go to www.rethinkenergy.co.uk or contact Diane Roberts at Staffordshire Business and Environment Network on 01785 276528.