Small businesses and charities across Bath and North East Somerset are being invited to apply for grants to replace old heating systems with environmentally friendly alternatives.
Air source heat pumps | Library image
West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris has launched a new heat pump scheme, which offers eligible firms and charities a one-off grant of up to £30,000 towards the cost of buying and then installing air-to-water, ground-to-water or water-to-water heat pumps so they can cut costs in the long term.
The scheme is designed to help move organisations away from relying on inefficient gas, oil and electricity-powered heating, used by over 90% of businesses and charities.
Nameless Media, a digital media firm, recently installed a brand new heat pump thanks to a £15,000 Mayor’s green grant.
Speaking from Nameless Media’s grade 2 listed HQ, built in the 1700s, Dan Norris said: “Firms in Bath and NE Somerset are battling with a cost-of-doing-business crisis. That’s why I’m stepping in to help them invest to ensure bills stay low for good.
“There’s enormous demand for heat pumps as they’re three or four times more energy efficient than gas boilers, and with these green grants, they’re affordable to install too.
“While ministers continue to row back on Net Zero, the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, which I lead, has a relentless focus on helping firms go green to save on energy bills. That’s vital if we are going to slash those emissions at pace.”
Installing a heat pump will see Nameless Media cut costs by over £5,000 each year and cut their greenhouse?gas emissions by 4.5 tonnes, according to the Metro Mayor.
Nameless Media’s CEO, Jaya Chakrabarti, added: “As a micro social enterprise committed to human rights and environmental justice in supply chains, living our values was crucial.
“The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority grant, covering nearly 60% of our heat pump costs, was a game-changer.
“Their support was invaluable, especially in navigating the challenge of finding suppliers, allowing us to switch from costly, inefficient storage heaters to a sustainable, cost-effective heating solution.
“This has empowered us to contribute meaningfully towards helping achieve net zero.”
Grants are available on a first come first served basis.
To apply, visit this page.
