Welsh SMEs to receive support from new scheme

23/08/2010

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Wales are set to benefit from new support scheme aimed at helping them profit from the renewable energy sector.

Called the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), it is designed to help Welsh SMEs receive the right accreditation to help them install renewable technologies, such as solar panels and heat pumps.

The scheme launched last week and it will allow SMEs to access interest-free loans in order to cover the costs of achieving MCS accreditation.

Under the scheme, Welsh SMEs will stand to benefit from the increased growth in the renewables industry, which has been stimulated by initiatives such as the Feed-in Tariff scheme in the UK.

Environment minister for the Welsh Assembly Government Jane Davidson said: "I believe that Wales should be at the forefront of the transition to a low-carbon economy and want to make it as easy as possible for Welsh businesses to make the most of the opportunities associated with renewable energy."

Recently, the Federation of Small Businesses suggested that the UK government should extend the current loan scheme for SMEs in order to help them benefit from the eco-friendly initiatives on offer.

Posted by Richard Smart