August 2006
Grants For All In The Low Carbon Buildings Programme
Stream 2 of the LCBP was published at the end of August completing the details for the two funding streams available to support market development of microgeneration technologies.
The essential details are given below and readers are encouraged to look at the Low Carbon Buildings website where you can get further details of the technologies, how to apply for the grants, eligible products and accredited installers.
The new programme, which started in April, £28.5M has been allocated and a further £50M is to be added when consultations have been completed on the most effective way it can be used to meet objectives. The first £28.5M has been allocated into categories as set out.
Stream 1
| Householders | £6.5M |
| Communities | £4M |
| Total Stream 1 Funding | £10.5M |
Stream 2
| Stream 2A | £6M |
| Stream 2B | £12M |
| Total Stream 2 Funding | £18M |
A wide range of technologies are being supported including solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar hot water (SHW), wind turbines, ground source heat pumps, bio-energy, small hydro, renewable combined heat and power (CHP), Micro CHP (gas fired) and fuel cells.
In Stream 1 (for householders and community projects) grants are at three levels:
- £400 per installation for SHW
- 50% for PV
- 30% for other technologies (subject to maximum amounts dependent on the technology)
For community projects (including schools) grants of up to £30,000 or 50% of the cost of installations are available. Applications can be made at any time and for householders are being turned around in as little as 3 weeks.
Unlike Stream 1, Stream 2 grants are competitive and are considered by a panel of experts meeting quarterly. Private and public sector organisations are eligible to make submissions for grants in Stream 2A of up to £100,000 and of up to £1M in Stream 2B.Grants of 40% are available on all eligible costs with an additional uplift of 10% for SME's.
The programme emphasis is very much on ensuring the built environment, whether new, refurbishment or retrofit, sets high performance standards and achieves large carbon emission reductions in use.
Not unreasonably the Stream 2 processes are more rigorous and in the 2B applications the Carbon Trust will work with applicants to ensure the buildings themselves have a low carbon footprint.
Pro Enviro can help if you want further information with regards to the grants or assistance in applying, contact Nersi Salehi on 01788 538 150 for a no-obligation chat.
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