Apply for the €10,000 Energy Efficiency Grant

Unlock Energy Savings with the Local Enterprise Offices' Energy Efficiency Grant!

At Synergy Credit Union, we are dedicated to informing our members about opportunities that can benefit their businesses. We’re delighted to share information about a fantastic initiative from the Local Enterprise Office - The Energy Efficiency Grant!

What is the Energy Efficiency Grant?

The Energy Efficiency Grant supports small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Cork North and West by funding investments in energy-efficient technologies and equipment. This grant covers up to 75% of eligible costs, with a maximum grant of €10,000. By taking advantage of this grant, businesses can significantly cut down on energy expenses and reduce their environmental impact.

Key Details of the Grant : 

• Maximum Funding: Up to €10,000 per business.
• Funding Limit: Covers up to 75% of eligible costs.
• Application Limit: One grant approval per enterprise.

This grant offers a significant opportunity for businesses to invest in energy-saving measures, helping to lower operational costs and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the Energy Efficiency Grant, businesses must meet the following criteria:

• Green for Business, Green Start, or SEAI Energy Audit: Businesses must have undertaken a Green for Business report, Green Start report, or a recent energy audit by an SEAI registered energy auditor. Go the bottom of this blog for a brief synopsis on these at the end.
• Size: Must be a small enterprise with 1 to 50 employees.
• Client Status: Not currently a client of Enterprise Ireland or IDA.
• Operational History: Established and trading for at least 12 months.
• Premises: Must have a commercially rateable fixed premises or an establishment approved within the Fáilte Ireland National Quality Assurance Framework.
• Solvency: Must demonstrate solvency through financial statements.
• Tax Clearance: Must have current tax clearance from Revenue.

Eligible costs include meters, smart energy controls, equipment upgrades to more energy-efficient systems, heat recovery systems, and more. Ineligible costs include systems supported by other agencies, such as SEAI, and activities related to fossil fuels.

Why Participate?

• Cost Savings: Implementing energy-efficient measures can lead to significant reductions in energy bills.
• Environmental Impact: Lower your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
• Business Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability can enhance your business’s reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers.

We encourage all eligible SMEs to explore this grant and take steps toward a more energy-efficient and sustainable operation.

For more information and to apply for the Energy Efficiency Grant, visit the Local Enterprise Office website.

Complete one of the Following programs below to Qualify for the Energy Efficient Grant

 1. Green for Business

This is a FREE programme designed to help small businesses like yours embark on a sustainability journey. You'll be paired with a green consultant who will provide tailored advice on how to make small changes that lead to big improvements.

Is your business eligible?

To qualify for Green for Business, your company must:

• Have 1-50 employees.
• Be established, registered, and operating within the Local Enterprise Office area.
• Operate in the commercial sector.
• Have an annual turnover exceeding €30,000.
• Be in business for more than six months.

Full Details can be found on the LEO website HERE

2. The GreenStart Program

This is a FREE grant offering up to 7 days of expert consultancy to help your business become more environmentally friendly. By improving your environmental performance, you can enhance your business's resilience to climate change and gain a competitive edge.

Who is eligible?

• Micro-enterprises (1-9 employees): Must be in manufacturing or internationally traded services, with an annual turnover exceeding €30,000 and operating for over 6 months. Must have completed Green for Business and identified further support needs.
• Small enterprises (10-50 employees): Must be in manufacturing or internationally traded services, with an annual turnover exceeding €30,000 and operating for over 6 months. Cannot be a current client of Enterprise Ireland or Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Please note: Businesses in retail, personal services, professional services, construction, coal, steel, agriculture, fishery, aquaculture, or involved in activities like gambling, adult entertainment, or tobacco products are not eligible.

What does GreenStart cover?

The grant covers the cost of a consultant who will work with your business to:

• Develop an environmental management system.
• Create a sustainable strategy aligned with national/international frameworks.
• Conduct a life cycle assessment.
• Explore circular economy opportunities.
• Implement initiatives such as carbon foot printing, green procurement, sustainable packaging, or biodiversity action plans.

How can GreenStart benefit your business?

• Reduce environmental impact: Lower your carbon footprint and conserve resources.
• Improve efficiency: Optimize operations and reduce costs.
• Enhance reputation: Attract eco-conscious customers and build a positive brand image.
• Increase resilience: Prepare your business for the challenges of climate change.

Full details and application form can be found HERE 

 3. The SEAI Energy Audit

Is your business spending at least €10,000 a year on energy? If so, you could be eligible for a €2,000 voucher towards the cost of a professional energy audit.

What is an energy audit?

An energy audit is a detailed assessment of your business's energy use. It identifies where energy is being wasted and provides recommendations on how to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Benefits of an energy audit:

• Save money: Identify quick wins and long-term cost reductions.
• Reduce your carbon footprint: Contribute to a greener future.
• Improve efficiency: Optimize your business operations.
• Enhance your brand: Showcase your commitment to sustainability.
• Prepare for the future: Stay ahead of changing regulations and market trends.

Am I eligible?

To qualify for the €2,000 voucher, your business must:

• Be a non-obligated entity (generally SMEs or public sector bodies with a small footprint).
• Be tax compliant and registered in Ireland.

 How do I Apply?  

See full details on the SEAI website HERE on how to apply