Scottish convenience retailers are being urged to take advantage of new funding for energy-efficient store upgrades and equipment.

The Scottish government has set aside £100,000 for the new Convenience Store Resource Efficiency Grant which is being managed by Zero Waste Scotland.

The scheme allows retailers to apply for a grant of up to £5,000 towards energy saving equipment such as chiller doors, heat reclaim and LED lighting. Stores can also get free energy-efficiency audits and interest-free loans.

The Scottish Grocer’s Federation (SGF) welcomed the scheme, which will help retailers reduce their energy bills and carbon emmisions. 

Chief executive Pete Cheema said: “This major investment in our sector is the result of a highly effective partnership between the SGF and Zero Waste Scotland. The funds will help convenience store retailers to lead the way in terms of increasing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

“I would urge all SGF members to make the most of this fantastic opportunity as a means of taking another step towards helping Scotland to become an environmentally sustainable society.”

Resource Efficient Scotland – a programme funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by Zero Waste Scotland – will form a key part of the new grant process, providing further guidance to help stores use resources more efficiently.

Retailers must be registered and operating in Scotland, with a sales area under 3,000 sq ft to be eligible for the grant and all funded equipment must be installed by 1 March 2016.

A second phase of funding may become available in the new financial year.

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