Under a new scheme businesses can receive up to one third of the cost of the new lights – which will then pay for themselves by cutting electricity bills.
Minister Zappone says the scheme makes economic sense for businesses in Rathfarnham, Tallaght, Citywest and other local communities and can also help reduce the impact of climate change.
Welcoming the announcement Minister Zappone said:
“Lighting is a huge expense for small businesses dependent on showrooms, factory floors or open plan spaces. Helping to reduce energy bills will support those companies which form the very backbone of the local economy – by accounting for 9 out of every 10 jobs.
The new €3m scheme is being run by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. It will allow firms to switch to upgrade smart and low energy lights. The development of LED lights has been a huge step forward in reducing the need for power and fuel.
Up to a third of the cost of a lighting upgrade will be provided – but the real savings will be on power bills which can fall by as much as 90%.
This not only makes economic sense but represents an investment in the future of our own communities and of the planet. Recent extreme weather events have served as a reminder of what can happen if we allow climate change to remain unchecked.
The grants are available to all firms with less than 250 employees and which have an annual turnover under €50m. So the vast majority of our local employers can apply.
Applications will be accepted throughout the month of May with the upgrades to take place before the end of September. Full details are available at www.seai.ie/grants. I encourage all local business people to take time in the coming days to examine the supports and ensure that their lighting needs are clean, efficient and sustainable.”
