Money from development agency Invest NI will be used by the Carbon Trust to assist with the uptake of low carbon technologies that will cut business energy bills, economy minister Arlene Foster announced yesterday.

The Carbon Trust, which last year helped NI firms cut energy bills by Euro 18.3m, will provide assessment and training to businesses as well as helping companies develop their own low carbon technologies.

Through an Energy Efficiency Loans Scheme, it will offer interest-free loans of up to Euro 400,000 for the installation of energy-efficient equipment and renewable energy.

“In the current global climate of difficult economic conditions and the ongoing effects of the credit crunch, businesses are keen to reduce their overheads wherever possible,” said Ms Foster.

“By considering and implementing methods of reducing their energy costs, many businesses in Northern Ireland can achieve this and improve their bottom line, while minimising their impact on the environment.”

The Carbon Trust is an independent body set up by Government in 2001 to speed up the transition to a low carbon economy.

Gustavo Montes de Oca

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe