Three Rivers raises green business grants to £6,500

Three Rivers District Council raised its maximum green energy grant for local commercial properties and community facilities from £3,000 to £6,500 on October 15, 2026.

The expanded funding comes through the council's Solar PV and Battery Grants scheme, which helps cover the purchase and setup costs for solar photovoltaic panels and commercial battery storage systems.

The local authority initially created the grant program earlier in the year to assist commercial businesses with energy efficiency installations. Under the newly updated rules, eligibility has been extended to non-residential community facilities that host local activities, offer public services, or provide space for residents across the district.

In a press release issued by the council, Cllr Aidan Bentley, Lead Member for Climate Change and Sustainability, encouraged local organizations to take advantage of the expanded scheme.

"I urge eligible organisations and businesses to apply for these fantastic grants today," Bentley said. "We really do hope that by increasing the grants available we will see community buildings and more businesses benefit from this great scheme."

Bentley added that the district council wants to provide local groups with practical support to invest in long-term sustainable solutions. The council stated that these investments will help organizations reduce their energy costs, strengthen their financial resilience against energy price shocks, and decrease carbon emissions.

The refreshed initiative follows the council's previous Business Energy Efficiency Grant, an earlier program supported by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Commenting on the previous funding scheme, one business recipient stated, "The grant allowed us to be able to implement the changes to our workspace and provide a healthier environment for staff, save on bills and play our part of reducing emissions and waste."

Building owners and commercial operators can submit grant applications online. The application period is set to run until April 2028, but the council noted that funding will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The district council confirmed that the scheme will close permanently once all available grant funds have been allocated to successful applicants.