Funding available for Energy for Growth Projects
The North East Local Enterprise Partnership (North East LEP) is inviting Expressions of Interest from projects which deliver on the vision of the North East Energy for Growth Strategy, to “Drive growth in the North East while delivering on national energy objectives.”
In support of this strategy we are working with cross-sector partners to develop a strong pipeline of prioritised projects which can help deliver the Energy for Growth Strategy vision. This project funding opportunity forms part of the programme to support this work.
Projects must be deliverable by 31 March 2021, and demonstrate clear links to one of three work streams set out in the Strategy:
Regional Energy: Delivery of regional energy projects in the North East, e.g. around heat, power or transport. Supporting growth in the low carbon economy.
Offshore Energy & subsea technology: A key economic opportunity, building on a nationally and globally important cluster of business and capability.
Energy Innovation & demonstration: A comprehensive asset base, forming an important hub and test bed for research, innovation, and commercialisation. While not limited to the following areas, priority is placed on proposals which can show clear alignment or opportunities related to following:
- Decarbonising heat: Projects associated with decarbonisation of heat, particularly from innovative sources or technologies where the North East can show leadership
- Offshore wind sector deal: Projects which will strengthen the region’s response to the Offshore Wind Sector Deal, and its key priorities and objectives
- Innovation and demonstration: Projects which strengthen the region’s energy innovation and demonstration capabilities, and their ability to drive commercialisation
- Business growth and job creation: Projects which will directly support a business growth and job creation opportunity related to energy.
Emphasis is also placed on projects which can show effective collaborations or partnerships where appropriate, towards developing and delivering coordinated regional activity.
Funding is available up to a normal maximum of 50% of eligible costs for capital projects or revenue specifically for project development or feasibility studies. This may include capital investment in buildings, plant and machinery, testing equipment or revenue funding for detailed technical studies to enable follow on investment. Operational revenue costs are non-eligible.
The maximum amount of grant available will normally be up to a maximum of £150,000. However, in exceptional circumstances, where there is clear need and a strategic regional benefit, a higher level of funding may be considered.
The total fund under this call is being finalised, but this is expected to be £400,000 – £1,500,000.
Projects are invited to submit expressions of interest between 2 September 2019 and midnight on 20 September 2019. Priority projects will be shortlisted and invited to submit an business case in October, other projects may remain on a reserve list.
Prospective applicants, who can be from public, private or voluntary sector, are encouraged in the first instance to read the Project Call Information document which can be found along with other supporting information on our funding page.
We also welcome informal contact to help you assess the eligibility of your project, answer any queries and supply you with an application form. Please contact: Andrew Clark [email protected] 0191 338 7452
In order to be considered, applicants must complete the Expression of Interest form and submit this to Andrew Clark by 23:59pm on 20 Sep 2019.
Key Reference Documents:-