SMES across the West Midlands looking to save on energy costs as winter fast approaches are being urged to tap into expertise at a special webinar initiative.
Small and medium-sized companies are invited to join the BEAS (Business Energy Advice Service) Power Webinar Week, hosted by Aston University from September 30 to October 2.
The energy-saving event includes a series of short online sessions showcasing how SMEs can reduce their energy bills, improve efficiency and access free energy assessments and match-funded grants of up to £100,000.
The pilot project is due to end in March 2026, and the university is keen to reach and support as many SMEs in the region as possible.
Already more than 1,800 businesses across the West Midlands have signed up, benefiting from expert guidance and funding support to upgrade equipment, adopt renewables and lower their running costs.
Each webinar session is free to attend and focuses on a real business in the region, showing exactly how they accessed BEAS support and what results they achieved.
The initiative features a local charity in Solihull which reduced its energy bills by installing 192 solar panels with the support of BEAS and a Midland firm which cut its energy bills by half, with grant-funding helping them invest in long-term solutions.
Another case study will show how a Birmingham-based manufacturer successfully accessed £100,000 of BEAS grant support to modernise operations, improve energy efficiency and strengthen resilience.
Ashmita Chitlangia, marketing manager at Aston University (BEAS) said: "Aston University is supporting SMEs through the Business Energy Advice Service, offering free energy assessments and access to grants of up to £100,000.
“This gives businesses the tools to cut costs and invest in sustainability.
“With autumn bringing colder weather and rising energy bills, our upcoming BEAS Power Webinar Week is the perfect opportunity for small and medium sized businesses to learn from others, get ready for the colder season and take steps to reduce their energy bills."
