Are you eligible for an interest-free loan?
January 25th 2007

Small to medium size enterprises (SMEs) in England and Wales, can get help to become more energy efficient thanks to interest- free energy efficiency loans of between £5,000 and £100,000 being offered by The Carbon Trust. Businesses in Northern Ireland can apply for up to £200k. The loans are designed to help businesses buy energy-saving equipment, such as energy efficient lighting and boilers.

Upgrading to energy efficient equipment, can save a company more than 20 per cent on energy bills, and that’s taking into account the investment required.

In most cases, the amount of money saved each month will equal the loan repayments and in many cases will be greater thereby increasing company profits and the payback period. Thereafter, the full value of the saving contributes to the bottom line.

During 2005/6, The Carbon Trust provided 266 new loans with a combined value of £9.2m. In the financial year 2006/07 the trust aims to double this value.

Who can apply?

All small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) within the private sector in England and Wales can apply for an interest-free loan, together with all businesses in Northern Ireland.

How to apply

The first step to applying for a loan is to check your eligibility. You can do this by visiting the Carbon Trust's website and taking it from there. Just visit: www.carbontrust.co.uk/loans

For further information, just  click here.

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