Government Supports for Sustainability: How Irish Businesses Can Lower Emissions and Stay Viable
Sustainability has become a strategic necessity for businesses looking to remain competitive in a changing regulatory and economic landscape. However, many companies face a key challenge: how to reduce emissions while maintaining financial viability. Thankfully, government-backed supports are available to help businesses integrate sustainability into their operations without compromising financial viability.
?Key Government Supports for Sustainable Business Practices
Climate Action Fund (CAF)
The Climate Action Fund (CAF) was established to support projects that help Ireland meet its climate and energy targets. With at least €500 million in government funding allocated until 2027, the fund enables the development of innovative initiatives that might not be feasible without financial assistance. Businesses can apply for support to implement low-carbon technologies and innovative solutions aligned with national climate goals.
The Climate Action Voucher
The Climate Action Voucher is a funding support designed to help businesses kick-start their sustainability journey by providing up to two days of independent training or advisory services. With a maximum award of €1,800, this voucher enables businesses to develop an initial sustainability action plan, focusing on reducing emissions and improving resource efficiency. Whether you're just beginning or looking to enhance your green strategy, this support can help you plan for a successful ‘green transformation.’
Support Scheme For Renewable Heat (SSRH)
The Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH) provides financial assistance to businesses transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable heating solutions. Administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the scheme offers two key supports: an operational tariff for biomass and biogas heating systems, and an installation grant covering up to 40% of the cost of heat pumps, with an additional 30% available for related energy-efficient measures. Eligible applicants include commercial, industrial, agricultural, and public sector heat users. To apply, businesses must demonstrate compliance with eco-design standards, building regulations, and other eligibility criteria. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult energy experts before starting their application.
GreenStart Program
GreenStart is a support program designed to help businesses improve their environmental performance by enhancing resource efficiency, reducing costs, and driving competitive advantage. It provides funding of up to €5,000 to engage a sustainability consultant who can introduce best-practice sustainable systems, develop decarbonisation strategies, and align environmental practices with global and Irish sustainability reporting initiatives. With up to 80% grant support, GreenStart enables businesses to implement structured environmental management systems and take meaningful steps toward a greener future.
Green Plus Program
GreenPlus is a funding program designed to help businesses build environmental management capabilities and implement best-practice sustainability strategies. With up to 50% grant support on eligible project costs (up to a maximum of €50,000), GreenPlus enables businesses to train staff, hire external environmental experts, implement green initiatives, and cover e-learning and training costs. Projects typically run for 12 months, helping Enterprise Ireland clients enhance their sustainability performance and prepare for a greener, more competitive future.
The Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA)
The Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) is a tax incentive designed to encourage businesses, sole traders, and farmers in Ireland to invest in energy-efficient equipment. Under this scheme, eligible businesses can deduct the full cost of qualifying energy-saving technology from their taxable profits in the year of purchase, reducing their tax liability. This is an accelerated alternative to the standard Wear and Tear Allowance, which spreads deductions over eight years. To claim ACA, businesses must ensure the equipment is listed on the Triple E product register and submit the claim through their income tax or corporation tax return.
How Generate Leads Supports Sustainability in Marketing
At Generate Leads, we specialise in integrating sustainability into brand storytelling, ensuring that businesses not only adopt green practices but effectively communicate their efforts to the right audience. As part of our brand marketing services, we support companies in navigating their sustainability needs, ensuring their commitments are not only communicated effectively but also delivered and aligned with industry standards and expectations.
If you’re interested in making sustainability a core part of your brand’s growth strategy while tapping into government incentives, reach out to Generate Leads today.
Hi, I’m Emmanuella! Let’s work together to create a sustainable and profitable future for your business.
As Sustainability Lead at Generate Leads, I guide AEC companies in not just implementing sustainability but using it as a driver for growth. If this sounds intriguing, connect with me at [email protected]