Abdul J Khan, (Sustainable Development Manager) presented the report, seeking the allocation of  grant funding to SME’s from S106 Funds from the Carbon Fund for energy reduction projects in the borough.

He outlined the decision making background to the programme and its benefits.

The Mayor invited the Chair of GSSC to comment on the report and he reported that the GSSC sought clarity on the funding priorities and the checks on projects. The Chair also indicated that Councillor Andrew Wood objected to the proposal to award grants to businesses. However, the GSSC endorsed the recommendations. The Mayor also asked about the selection process and it was noted that each application would be assessed according to the criteria to ensure that those that would deliver the greatest benefit would secure funding.

The Mayor then invited GDSC Members to comment on the report and they indicated that they supported the proposals.

DECISION

1.         That the grant funding of £220,000 be approved to deliver the SME Energy Reduction Programme

2.         That the Corporate Director Place be authorised to enter into grant agreements and make any associated decisions in order to distribute the funding

Abdul Khan, Energy and Sustainability Manager introduced the report stating the SME Energy Reduction Programme were grants from S106 funds from the Carbon Fund to improve energy efficiency of premises. He said the aim was to reduce energy costs, consumption and related carbon emissions. There would be a open application process for SMEs to apply for funding that will include a window for applications to ensure SMEs across the Borough have an equal opportunity to apply.

Mr Khan informed members the budget for the programme was £220,000 and the grant available will be for 50% of the project costs up to a maximum of £5,000 which will ensure at least 40 SMEs are supported.

Members of the Sub-Committee made the following comments and asked questions in relation to the report:

·         Is the S106 money ring-fenced specifically for this use?

·         Have the SMEs been identified?

·         The target is 40 however can more SMEs apply?

·         What other projects have been supported via this funding?

·         How do you prioritise which SME receives funding?

·         Has an evaluation of the previous projects been undertaken and what do the statistics show?

·         Are grants being offered borough wide?

·         Are any quality checks in place?

Councillor Andrew Wood, who was not present for this item asked that his objection to the report be recorded as he did not agree with the project.

Members of the Sub-Committee AGREED to recommend to the Grants Determination Sub-Committee to:

1.    Approve the grant funding of £220,000 to deliver the SME Energy Reduction Programme.

2.    Authorise the Corporate Director Place to enter into grant agreements and make any associated decisions in order to distribute the funding.