NIE shines new light on B&Bs

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) is offering a grant for B&Bs, guesthouses and the self–catering sector across Northern Ireland who would like to install a solar water heating system to help manage their demand for hot water and reduce their energy costs.

The NIE SMART Programme funding will offer successful applicants a grant for solar water heating of 25% of the installed cost, excluding VAT, capped at 2,500 per property. The funding support applies to B&Bs, guesthouses and the self-catering sector who can confirm that they are Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) certified tourist accommodation providers. Please note larger properties such as hotels will also be considered on a case by case basis.

This is a limited offer available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and you can find out how to apply by visiting www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk.

Speaking at the launch, Delta Hamilton from NIE Energy said, “I am delighted that the NIE SMART Programme is offering this new grant support for B&Bs. B&Bs tend to have a high demand for hot water to meet the showering and bathing requirements of their guests but by installing a solar water heating system, these establishments can reduce their dependence on immersion heaters which are expensive to run. A solar water heating system is capable of providing up to 60% of a property’s hot water needs every year, so significant savings can be made on a B&Bs heating bill and its carbon footprint. We hope that this new scheme will encourage B&Bs to consider the economic benefits of installing a renewable energy technology while also creating a more sustainable future.”

Alan Clarke from NITB said; “NITB is delighted that Northern Ireland Electricity is offering tourist accommodation providers this opportunity to help offset the costs of switching to solar power for their hot water needs.

“Like all other industries, the tourism sector must do its bit towards reducing carbon emissions and helping to meet the government target of ensuring that 12% of our electricity is generated from indigenous renewable sources by 2012. Furthermore, green travel and eco tourism is on the rise, with more tourists than ever now seeking out ethical or sustainable products and services while on holiday.

“We would strongly encourage tourism businesses to take advantage of this scheme which, as well as developing their ‘green credentials’ and doing their bit for the environment may even help them to save money in the long term.”

The NIE SMART Programme is funded by Northern Ireland Electricity, the network company, and managed by NIE Energy. To find out more about saving energy and renewable energy solutions for your home, school or business check out the NIE Your Energy web site www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk.