Low-carbon infrastructure funding for Ceredigion’s small businesses

New funding is available for Ceredigion’s business community to get on top of their energy use, bills and carbon emissions through a new scheme being delivered by Ceredigion County Council and energy experts Severn Wye.

Seven businesses will benefit from free energy efficiency audits and action plans, with two receiving fully funded low- or zero-carbon infrastructure improvements worth up to £50,000.

The scheme is part of Ceredigion County Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting economic development and will support new and existing businesses with their growth plans and aspirations. The Cynnal y Cardi Business Capital Grant is funded by the UK Government via the Shared Prosperity Fund.

Councillor Clive Davies,  Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Economy and Regeneration, explains: “This fund aims not only to deliver tangible improvements to business premises and help them cut costs, but to build resilience and knowledge within businesses particularly in relation to decarbonisation and energy efficiency.”

Severn Wye project lead Rebecca Wattam said:

‘We know from experience that small businesses across Wales can struggle under ever-growing energy costs and at the same time are keen to decarbonise and contribute to the region’s green economy. This scheme will help Ceredigion’s business community understand and manage their energy use, keep bills down and cut carbon emissions.’

The grant will be open for applications on a first-come, first-served basis and is open until 30 September 2025. All installations must be completed by the end of January 2026.

The opportunity is open to start-up businesses, micro businesses and small–medium enterprises with a registered address in Ceredigion, and the investment must be used to support their business operation in the county. Priority will be given to early-stage businesses and those with the ambition and characteristics to scale-up.

Successful businesses will have to fund the installations upfront and reclaim the costs from the Fund. There might be an opportunity to take out a green loan ….

Ceredigion businesses interested in taking part must register through Severn Wye’s application form CBEEB - Expression of interest