Burton business secures green grant to boost energy efficiency

A Burton-based business has successfully secured grant funding to enhance their energy efficiency and is urging other local businesses to take advantage of the Green Solutions Scheme before the funding deadline.

Normans Musical Instruments, a specialist in musical instruments and accessories, applied to the Green Solutions Scheme managed by Staffordshire County Council in affiliation with the Business Energy Advice Service.

The scheme aims to help businesses reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Thanks to the scheme, Normans Musical Instruments has now installed new LED lights with motion sensors and upgraded to infrared heaters.

These improvements are expected to significantly reduce energy consumption and lower the company’s carbon footprint.

Andy McKeown (pictured), director at Normans Musical Instruments, said: “Having the opportunity to get some funding for these projects really accelerated the speed at which we could take the leap and make the changes to the building.

“The grant funding has allowed us to make the changes all in one go and reap the financial benefits and also turn our company greener.”

The Staffordshire Green Solutions scheme offers businesses financial support to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Under the scheme, businesses can get a free energy assessment, free carbon literacy training, and a grant of up to £100,000 to make sustainable changes.

Businesses may also be eligible for an interest-free loan of between £5,000 and £200,000, repayable within two years.

In the spirit of sustainability, Normans have also set up a musical instrument recycle scheme called ReTune where they collect old unused instruments, repair, refurbish and then donate to music groups and charities to help bring music to more people’s lives.

Simon Tagg, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Environment, Infrastructure and Climate Change, said: “Helping businesses become greener is crucial for making Staffordshire more sustainable. It is great to see local businesses taking steps towards this goal.”

“Participating in the Green Solutions scheme not only reduces energy costs but also significantly lowers carbon footprints, offering long-term financial benefits. I strongly urge all eligible businesses to seize this opportunity while the funding is still available.”

Funding for the scheme will close at the end of November 2024, so businesses have a limited time to apply for a grant.

Businesses interested in applying for the Staffordshire Green Solutions Scheme can find out more at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/greensolutions.