UK Research and Innovation has awarded the Black Country Consortium funding for its Repowering the Black Country project. It is one of six projects benefitting from government funding as part of the Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge under the umbrella of the national Clean Growth Strategy.

Repowering the Black Country aims to create a detailed framework for achieving net zero carbon for Black Country industry by 2040, including significant investment to support clean industrial growth. All four boroughs, including Sandwell, will be covered by the plans which will involve the creation of around 50 zero carbon power hubs across the region by 2024.

Sandwell Council welcomes the initiative, having already made significant efforts to reduce carbon use in Sandwell by minimising the use of gas, electricity and fuel across all council buildings, activities, employees and contractors.

The resulting reduction is not just good for the environment, but also benefits business. Tom Westley DL, chair of the Black Country LEP, said: “In such uncertain times it is hugely reassuring to be planning for the future and looking at how we can support our world-class industrial sector. Zero carbon means lower energy bills, lower carbon emissions and commercial opportunities locally – all of which will be good news for the Black Country economy.”

For more information on how your business can become more environmentally friendly, visit our Energy Saving for Businesses page.