Thursday 20th of September 2018 | Posted In: Renewable energy

Grant scheme for rural business update

Farmers and growers can now claim grants of between £35,000 and £1 million, for up to 40% of their investment in a battery storage system through the "Improving Farm Productivity" grant. This grant is set to close to new applications on 03 December 2018 and farmers and growers are advised to get their applications in for this deadline to take advantage of this. Up to one megawatt of energy storage may be eligible, for a total cost of between £87,500 and £2.5m.  You can also apply for grants for local heat network infrastructure and other energy efficiency projects, all through the RDPE Countryside Productivity Scheme, under the theme of "Improving Farm Productivity" (see links below to download the handbook for further details and examples).  In addition, this grant scheme covers robotic technology and advanced slurry/ digestate management equipment.

The availability of these grants is welcome in the industry to help support investment for the future and to improve business cases for projects and now is the time to act so that you don’t miss out on this grant. The grants helpline is available on 03000 200 301 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, speak to one of the team here at the NFU Energy Service on 024 7669 6512 if you have an energy project that you think could be eligible for support and to find out more.

See the following links for more information:

https://www.fec-energy.co.uk/news/government-launches-two-new-grant-schemes-rural-business 

https://www.nfuonline.com/cross-sector/farm-business/energy-and-renewables/energy-and-renewables-news/two-new-grant-schemes-provide-support-for-rural-business/

https://www.nfuonline.com/cross-sector/farm-business/energy-and-renewables/energy-and-renewables-news/energy-storage-summit-2018-nfu-member-offer/

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/countryside-productivity-scheme

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/658195/Improving_Farm_Productivity_handbook_v2.pdf