News: Rotherham businesses hear about the benefits of investing in energy

Businesses attending an event last week heard how the four South Yorkshire local authority areas are amongst the best in the country for the amount of energy generated from solar power.

Over 30 businesses attended the Invest in Energy event to learn how renewable energy could benefit their business.

Welcoming businesses to the event, local MP John Healey explained how data compiled by Ofgem, ranks the four South Yorkshire local authority areas in the top five nationally for solar installations. Only Cornwall has more solar power capacity.

He said: "This shows that South Yorkshire people are taking early advantage of the feed in tariff scheme which is great news in terms of opportunities for local businesses who design and install this type of technology and for homes and businesses who are making savings as a result of the solar installations."

Companies who attended the event heard how businesses generating their own electricity by installing renewable energy technology can lower their operating costs by saving on fuel bills, raise their profile and reputation as a company with environmental credentials and encourage staff and visitors to think green. Companies investing their own money in solar panels, wind and hydro power can even qualify for payments as part of the Government's Feed in Tariff scheme, thus generating an income.

The event was organised on behalf of the Dearne Valley Business Forum by the Dearne Valley Eco-Vision team in conjunction with the Rotherham Investment and Development Office (RIDO – part of Rotherham Borough Council), with regional and European funding support.

Kate Gilmartin from CO2 Sense - a not for profit support organisation providing assistance to businesses wanting to improve their green credentials - was able to talk businesses through the different stages of considering, commissioning, funding and operating renewable energy technologies.

Matthew Beck and James Smith from Magna Science and Adventure Centre were able to provide a local example of a business which has taken advantage of solar technology. A total of 2155 solar panels have been installed on the roof at the Magna Centre, generating around 20% of the attraction's electricity requirements.

Joanne Wehrle the Dearne Valley Eco-Vision project manager said: "We are keen to have local businesses come on board as part of the development of the Dearne Valley Eco-Vision to help to shape the future of their area.

"We want to see these businesses taking advantage of the potential opportunities available as part of the project. This might be around saving money by improving the energy efficiency of their own operations, installing renewables or working with their staff to reduce energy and waste.

"Local businesses supporting the Eco-Vision can also benefit from added publicity and offers available from partner organisations to help them and their workforce."

Dearne Valley Eco Vision website

Images: RiDO