$1.5 million grant program to plan for net zero emissions

This post was originally published on Sustainability Matters

Applications are now open for a $1.5 million NSW Government grant program to help eligible NSW businesses plan and take action to achieve net zero emissions.

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has recommended businesses take action on emissions reduction as it may strengthen NSW businesses’ global competitiveness, build resilience, and drive innovation and growth.

The Net Zero Planning Grant will offer eligible businesses in all sectors up to $30,000, covering up to 75% of project costs, to identify and implement actions towards net zero.

“We understand that transitioning to a net zero future can be complex for businesses to navigate,” said DCCEEW Director of Program and Market Development Terry Niemeier. “As we work towards a net zero future, we want to work with businesses to unlock opportunities for innovation, growth and resilience.”

The grant is provided in two stages:

• Stage one: Up to $4000 to access expert advisers to identify and prioritise key actions across areas such as strategy, governance, people and capability, data, targets, net zero action, planning, finance, reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• Stage two: Up to $26,000 to support detailed work in one or more of the prioritised actions.
   

Grantees can also access the Net Zero Business Guide, developed following a pilot program with more than 50 organisations to provide practical guidance throughout their net zero journey.

“The grant empowers businesses to turn their plans into a reality — whether it’s setting a net zero target, developing a greenhouse gas inventory or formulating a net zero action plan,” Niemeier said.

The grant is part of the NSW Government’s $22 million Business Decarbonisation Program, supporting businesses to implement low-cost improvements and accelerate their transition to net zero.

Round one of the Net Zero Planning Grant is now open for applications via the NSW Climate and Energy action website.

Image credit: iStock.com/Boy Wirat