The cost of sustainable energy installations can be offset through government grants and equity.  The level of funding available depends on the type of development.  CEN can offer advice on, or source these finance options.

Grants

The three major funding schemes for renewable energy projects, Clear Skies, PhotoVoltaic Major Demonstration Project (PVMDP) and Community Energy have now closed.  They have been superseded by the DTI’s Low Carbon Buildings Programme (LCBP).

Low Carbon Buildings Programme – Government funding for householders, community organisations (including local authorities and housing associations), schools, public or charitable sector organisations and businesses to install micro-generation projects.  Buildings have to take energy efficiency measures prior to applying for funding.  Between 40 and 50% of installation costs can be funded.  Calls for applications take place quarterly (Stream 2A) or twice a year (Stream 2B).  Both stand-alone and grid-connected systems are eligible.

More information can be found from: http://www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk

Bio-energy Capital Grants Scheme - The fourth round of the Bio-energy Capital Grants Scheme was launched on the 9th April 2008. This scheme is worth £4m for the year 2008-9, and it will support the installation of biomass-fuelled heat and combined heat and power projects in the industrial, commercial and community sectors. "Community" can include local authorities, schools, social housing etc.

For more information go to:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/farm/crops/industrial/energy/capital-grants.htm

Equity

• Enhanced Capital Allowance : ECAs enable a business to claim 100% first-year capital allowances on their spending on qualifying plant and machinery.
• ESCo Model : CEN can finance and operate the sustainable energy technology (usually wood-fuel or CHP unit) and sell back the heat or electricity at a competitive rate.
• Interest-Free Loans: CEN offers interest-free loans for the capital and installation cost of a CHP unit.

Please email or call CEN on 020 8683 6813 for information on the most appropriate funding source for an individual project.