As the UK accelerates its journey towards net-zero emissions by 2050, businesses are presented with a myriad of opportunities to enhance their energy efficiency. In 2025, the government has introduced several grants and schemes designed to support companies in reducing energy consumption, lowering operational costs, and contributing to a sustainable future. At Galaxy Region Utilities, we are committed to helping businesses navigate these opportunities and implement effective energy solutions.
1. Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF)
The Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF) is a pivotal initiative aimed at assisting businesses with high energy usage in adopting low-carbon technologies and improving energy efficiency. In 2025, the fund continues to support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance competitiveness.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Grants covering up to 50% of eligible project costs.
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Eligible Projects: Energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy installations, and process innovations.
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Eligibility: Large energy-intensive industries, including manufacturing, chemicals, and paper production.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
Our team can guide you through the application process, ensuring your project aligns with IETF criteria and maximizing your chances of securing funding.
2. SME Energy Efficiency Scheme (SMEES)
Tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the SME Energy Efficiency Scheme (SMEES) offers capital grants to support energy-saving projects.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Up to 45% of project costs, with grants ranging from £10,000 to £100,000.
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Eligible Projects: Energy audits, lighting upgrades, heating system improvements, and insulation enhancements.
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Eligibility: SMEs with fewer than 250 employees and an annual turnover of less than £50 million.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
We provide comprehensive energy audits and assist in identifying suitable projects that qualify for SMEES funding.
3. Net Zero Newport Decarbonisation Programme
For businesses located in Newport, the Net Zero Newport Decarbonisation Programme offers match-funded grants to support energy efficiency initiatives.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Grants covering up to 50% of project costs, up to a maximum of £30,000 per business.
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Eligible Projects: Energy-saving advice, insulation, heating system upgrades, and renewable energy installations.
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Eligibility: Businesses based in Newport aiming to reduce carbon emissions.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
We offer tailored solutions to help Newport-based businesses implement energy-efficient measures and navigate the application process.
4. Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) focuses on improving the energy efficiency of homes and small businesses through insulation upgrades.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Full or partial funding for insulation measures.
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Eligible Projects: Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and solid wall insulation.
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Eligibility: Properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
We coordinate with approved installers to facilitate insulation upgrades, ensuring compliance with GBIS requirements.
5. Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent, the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) provides support for businesses installing EV charging points.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Vouchers covering up to 75% of the cost of purchasing and installing EV charge points, up to a maximum of £350 per socket.
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Eligible Projects: Installation of EV charging infrastructure for employee and fleet use.
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Eligibility: Businesses, charities, and public sector organizations.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
We assist in identifying suitable locations for EV chargers and managing the installation process to ensure compliance with WCS guidelines.
6. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers grants to businesses replacing old, inefficient heating systems with low-carbon alternatives.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Grants of up to £7,500 for air source heat pumps and up to £6,000 for ground source heat pumps.
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Eligible Projects: Replacement of fossil fuel heating systems with renewable heating technologies.
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Eligibility: Non-domestic properties, including commercial buildings and public sector organizations.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
We provide expert advice on selecting appropriate heating technologies and manage the installation process to ensure optimal performance.
7. Government Grants and Green Financing
In addition to specific schemes, the UK government offers a range of grants and green financing options to support businesses in their transition to sustainable practices.
Key Features:
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Funding Amount: Varies depending on the scheme and project.
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Eligible Projects: Renewable energy installations, energy efficiency upgrades, and sustainability initiatives.
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Eligibility: Businesses across various sectors committed to reducing carbon emissions.
How Galaxy Region Utilities Can Assist:
We offer consultancy services to identify suitable funding opportunities and assist in the application process.
Why Partner with Galaxy Region Utilities?
Navigating the landscape of government grants and energy efficiency schemes can be complex. At Galaxy Region Utilities, we simplify this process for businesses by:
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Providing Expert Guidance: Our team offers tailored advice to help you identify suitable grants and schemes.
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Assisting with Applications: We support you throughout the application process, ensuring all requirements are met.
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Implementing Solutions: From energy audits to the installation of energy-efficient systems, we manage projects from start to finish.
Conclusion
The UK government’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 has led to the introduction of various grants and schemes aimed at enhancing business energy efficiency. By leveraging these opportunities, businesses can reduce operational costs, improve sustainability, and contribute to a greener future. Partnering with Galaxy Region Utilities ensures that your business maximizes the benefits of these initiatives, positioning you as a leader in energy efficiency.
For more information on available grants and how we can assist your business, contact Galaxy Region Utilities today. Together, we can build a sustainable and energy-efficient future.