The Mayor of West Yorkshire has announced £10 million in new support to help businesses cut costs and combat the effects of climate change.
Mayor Tracy Brabin described the Business Sustainability Support scheme as a “gamechanger” in helping small and medium-sized businesses cut their energy use.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority will work with interested businesses to develop and implement new sustainability plans, aimed at slashing energy bills and boosting resilience against rising temperatures, supply chain issues and flooding.
Following a free assessment of the firm’s environmental impact, these bespoke plans will recommend various workplace adaptations, such as lighting that is more energy efficient, measures that cut down on waste, or equipment that harnesses cheap, clean and renewable energy, including solar panels.
Advice will then be offered on how to deliver the plan, secure public and private investment, and make sustainable changes to ensure annual energy bill savings long into the future.
Mayor Brabin said the new support will be a “gamechanger” in the region’s fight to become a more resilient, Net Zero carbon economy by 2038. The £10 million fund comes after the Mayor’s recent launch of the West Yorkshire Plan, which commits to building a greener, more vibrant West Yorkshire that works for all.
Mayor Brabin said: “As the cost of living and energy crisis continues, it’s vital we step up support for our hardest hit businesses, helping them keep down costs, protect jobs and stay afloat during this difficult time.
“This new, £10 million scheme will help us deliver a greener West Yorkshire by slashing the carbon footprint of our small and medium-sized businesses, while futureproofing them against the harmful effects of climate change.
“As we transition to a net zero carbon economy by 2038, we’re determined to ensure that no business is left behind, as we work to make positive, greener changes that benefit all our communities across the region.”
Clr Shabir Pandor, leader of Kirklees Council and chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Business, Economy and Innovation Committee, said: “I’m delighted we’re able to provide this vital support to businesses as we build a stronger, more prosperous West Yorkshire.
“The inflation crisis has impacted our small and medium-sized businesses right across the region, and it’s crucial we have the right support in place to help them slash bills, retain staff, and reduce the risks posed by climate change.
“By ensuring no business is left behind at this difficult time, we’re once again proving that West Yorkshire is the best place to start, grow and scale a business.”
The scheme will build on previous sustainability support through the Mayor’s Resource Efficient Business programme, which helped 360 West Yorkshire businesses save an average of £11,500 per year on their energy bills.
Businesses are encouraged to find out more about the support here: https://www.the-lep.com/sustainability/
