How SMEs can save money through Decarbonisation Net Zero
Written by Ashmita Chitlangia, marketing manager of Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme and Aston University
Saving money while reducing your environmental impact is becoming increasingly important for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
With rising energy costs and the need for sustainability, now is the perfect time for businesses to take action.
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is driving this initiative through the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, with Aston University as the lead delivery partner, helping businesses lower their energy bills and carbon footprint.
SMEs can access free energy assessments and grants of up to £100,000.
Here’s how your business can benefit and start saving today!
What is the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme?
The Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme supports businesses across the West Midlands in adopting energy-saving measures.
By offering expert advice, free energy assessments, and grants, businesses can upgrade to energy-efficient equipment, switch to renewable energy sources, and make smart changes that significantly reduce their operational costs.
SMEs can receive up to £100,000 in funding with 50 per cent match funding, making sustainability more affordable and accessible.
Real-life savings: How companies are benefiting?
The programme has already helped businesses in a variety of sectors. Whether you're running a corner shop, a hairdressing salon, a manufacturing operation, or any other type of small business, you can achieve significant energy savings and reduce your carbon emissions.
Case study: Acer Healthcare
Acer Healthcare, a care home in Solihull, implemented energy-saving measures through the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme.
They installed a Solar PV Rooftop System and upgraded their lighting to energy-efficient LEDs. The impact was substantial:
- Total investment: £21,200 (50 pwe cent funded by the grant, 50 per cent covered by Acer Healthcare)
- Annual energy savings: £6,772
- Carbon footprint reduction: 10.2 tonnes CO2e
- Grant support: £10,600
- Payback period: 3.1 years
In June 2023, before applying to the programme, Acer Healthcare’s energy bill was £526.57.
After implementing these energy-saving solutions, their bill for June 2024 dropped to just £32.98—an impressive 93.7 per cent reduction in energy costs. That’s a huge financial relief for any business, alongside a meaningful reduction in carbon emissions.
Join the 1,500+ SMEs that have already registered for the free energy assessment
Across the West Midlands, more than 1,500 SMEs have already started their sustainability journey through the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme. From manufacturing to food and beverage, a diverse range of businesses are seeing the benefits of reduced energy costs and improved sustainability. Some of the sectors and businesses making strides include:
- Manufacturing: Creative Manufacturing Ltd and Vincent Timber Limited
- Printing: Central Mailing Services Limited and Genie Printing & Mailing Ltd
- Clubs and associations: Solihull Indoor Bowls Club, Olton Golf Club, Aston Edwardian Association
- Automotive services: Italtruck Ltd and City Fleet Care Ltd
- Food and beverage: Golden Delight Foods Ltd and Attic Brew Co
These businesses represent just a few of the many SMEs reducing energy costs and embracing sustainability through the programme.
Why SMEs should act now?
SMEs play a crucial role in helping the UK meet its net-zero emissions target by 2050. By reducing your energy consumption, not only do you contribute to this important goal, but you can also protect your business from rising energy costs.
With free energy assessments and grants of up to £100,000 available, the DNZ Programme makes these changes accessible for businesses across various sectors. Whether you’re in manufacturing, retail, care, or hospitality, you can save money while becoming more sustainable.
Start saving today
There’s never been a better time to invest in your business’s energy efficiency. Beyond the immediate benefits of lowering energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint, implementing sustainable practices can enhance your brand’s reputation, showing customers and stakeholders that your business is committed to a greener future.
With the pilot DNZ programme ending in March 2025, now is the time to act!
Imagine what your business could do with the money you save—invest in growth, innovation, or even further sustainability initiatives. The possibilities are endless.
For any questions, feel free to email Aston University at decarb@aston.ac.uk