Green for Micro Programme (GRM)

testGreen for Micro Programme (GRM)

The energy sector has experienced a significant increase in fuel costs over the last twelve months. This has prompted businesses to revaluate their energy use to find ways to reduce energy costs.

Small businesses and remote working hubs are being offered the opportunity to cut their emissions and save on energy costs through the Green for Micro Programme. It is a Local Enterprise Office Initiative to help businesses reduce their carbon emissions and become carbon neutral.

ORS is excited to be part of the Green for Micro Programme, appointed as one of their expert consultants, advising SMEs on how to increase their business’ efficiency and sustainability from both a financial and environmental perspective.

How can the Green for Micro Programme help?

Businesses can receive up to two days of mentoring support with a Green Consultant through the programme. With the help of a Green Consultant, small companies with up to ten employees can get free advice and technical support on resource efficiency, how to better understand their carbon footprint and how to implement an environmental management system to reduce costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This involves a site visit to the business where the consultant reviews onsite energy management, energy efficiency, and renewable energy opportunities. Identifying main energy users in the business may include lighting, heating, IT systems, transport, etc. The audit will be followed up by a detailed energy report. The report is constructed to deliver the findings and provide recommendations on the most effective ways to save money on energy bills. Energy efficiency is our first renewable fuel, and an energy audit is the first step to energy efficiency.

ORS has delivered several energy audits for businesses on behalf of the Local Enterprise Offices from Offaly, Laois, and Westmeath. Identifying energy savings is at the core of everything we do at ORS; our energy team has extensive experience within the energy and sustainability sector. The Green for Micro Programme is an excellent opportunity for small businesses to adopt sound green principles and develop an understanding of what actions they have to take to become more sustainable.

The Green for Micro Programme can offer many benefits to your business, including:

• Increased cost savings.
• Improved resource efficiency (using less energy, water, and materials).
• Environmental footprint and greenhouse gas emissions are reduced.
• Opportunities for higher and added value on products and services.
• Increased resistance to the effects of climate change.

Who is eligible?

Any microenterprise or small business employing up to ten people is eligible for the Green for Micro Programme, with a turnover of €30,000 annually in 2019 or 2020. The application is submitted to your Local Enterprise Office, which will reach out to a registered Green Consultant and also cover the costs associated with the energy audit.

To find out more information about the new Green for Micro Programme, including information on how to apply, click here. For a detailed video on further information, click here.