news from BRE
published: 8/1/2007
New grants for renewables
Applications for grants are now being accepted for Phase 2 of the DTI’s Low Carbon Building Programme (LCPB) which will provide around £50M of grants over the next two – three years to encourage uptake of renewable energy technologies here in the UK.
Phase 2 grants are available for the installation of microgeneration technologies in public sector buildings including local authority housing, housing association properties and schools. The scheme is also open to buildings belonging to charitable bodies. Applicants can receive up to £1M of grant money for the following technologies:- Solar photovoltaic
- Solar thermal hot water
- Wind turbines
- Ground source heat pumps
- Automated wood pellet stoves
- Wood fuelled boilers
‘This is a massive undertaking, but one that we are more than well equipped to handle.’ says Anthony Heywood, who heads up BRE’s renewables grants team. ’It makes sense to bring together the two elements involved in delivering the programme. We are used to combining research work with handling the administrative and financial aspects of major projects, so this is not new to us. We have established a close working relationship with colleagues in the DTI, and are delighted to be involved in this important initiative.’
The LCBP is an important part of the Government’s drive to reduce carbon emissions and raise awareness of the free, clean sources of energy that are available to us. Announcing the launch of Phase 2 on December 11th, Trade & Industry Secretary Alistair Darling said ‘It is vital that we cut the C02 emissions from our buildings if we are to reach the UK’s 60% reduction target by 2050. Combining energy efficiency measures with the fitting of microgeneration technologies on schools and other public sector buildings can and will make a real difference.’
The ability to sell excess electricity produced by some of these technologies back to the National Grid is another benefit of having them installed. The announcement in the Chancellor’s pre-budget report that income tax on these re-sales will be scrapped, will make the technologies even more cost effective and financially appealing.
For more information on the grants and how to apply for them, visit www.lowcarbonbuildingsphase2.org.uk
Notes for editors
BRE is the UK’s leading centre of expertise for construction, the built environment, energy, fire, security and many associated issues. It provides research, consultancy, information and testing services to customers worldwide.
BRE is owned by the BRE Trust, a registered charity (no. 1092193) with a mission to champion excellence and innovation in the built environment for the benefit of all. www.bretrust.org.uk
Low Carbon Building Programme (LCBP)
The DTI’s Low Carbon Buildings Programme is the replacement for the DTI Clear Skies and Solar PV grant programmes. It provides grants for microgeneration technologies to householders, community organisations, schools, the public and not for profit sector and private businesses.
Phase 1 of LCBP came into operation in April 2006 making available some £28.5M of grants.