Overview:
The Improving Farm Productivity Grant Round 2 in England is designed to enhance farm and horticulture productivity. It provides funding for various capital items, including robotic equipment, LED lighting, ventilation control units, and solar PV systems. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) prioritises projects based on their potential to improve productivity, benefit the environment, introduce innovation, and address labour shortages.
The application closing date for the eligibility checker was 21 March 2024, at 11:59pm. Those that are successful have until 31 July 2025 to complete their full applications for the grant.
Grant Themes:
In terms of farm productivity grant amounts, the minimum is £25,000, with a maximum of £500,000 per applicant business. This can be used for investing in robotic and automation equipment.
For solar grants, the minimum is £15,000, reaching a maximum of £100,000 per applicant business.
If applying for both, applicants need to submit two separate applications, with a combined maximum grant of £500,000. A comprehensive list of eligible equipment can be found on the Government website: Improving Farm Productivity grant Round 2: equipment definitions and requirements - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
There are funding limitations; applicants are required to cover remaining project costs through loans, overdrafts, or alternative sources. The grant strictly prohibits the use of other public money, such as local authorities' grant funding, for project costs. Additionally, the grant cannot be utilised for capital works required by other agreements.
How can NFU Energy help?
NFU Energy can assist shortlisted applicants in completing their full applications for the solar funding component of the grant. Here's how it works:
Comprehensive Grant Documentation
NFU Energy simplifies the process by taking on the heavy lifting of completing all necessary grant documents associated with solar funding. Our team of experts meticulously prepares each document, ensuring that every detail is addressed accurately and promptly. This service not only saves time but also significantly increases the chances of a successful application, allowing farmers to focus on what they do best – farming.
Sourcing and Analysing Renewable Installer Quotes
Renewable energy is a key component of modern farming, offering both economic and environmental benefits. NFU Energy goes a step further by helping farmers source three competitive quotes from reputable renewable energy installers, if required. We don’t just stop at finding quotes; we break them down into costed items, making it easier to understand what you’re paying for and how it aligns with the grant’s requirements. This detailed analysis ensures transparency and helps in making informed decisions.
Financial Forecasting: Paybacks and Timelines
Understanding the financial implications of renewable installations is crucial. Our service includes calculating the paybacks and timelines of your renewable energy installations. This financial forecasting provides a clear picture of the return on investment and helps in planning long-term sustainability and productivity enhancements.
Expert Negotiation
Our team has extensive experience in negotiation and excels in securing the best outcomes for our clients. Whether it’s negotiating with installers to get the best deal or liaising with the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) to ensure your application meets all criteria, NFU Energy is in your corner. Our experience and expertise mean that you get the most value out of the grant and the installations.
Beyond the core services, NFU Energy offers additional support tailored to your needs. This includes securing planning documents and sourcing further finance if required. We understand that each farm is unique, and our flexible approach ensures that all aspects of the grant application and project implementation are covered comprehensively.
Don’t let the complexity of grant applications hold you back from enhancing your farm’s productivity and sustainability. Let NFU Energy guide you through the process with confidence and ease. Call us on 0247 669 6512 or email [email protected] to learn more about our grant application service for the Improving Farm Productivity Grant Round 2.