The UK Infrastructure Bank (UKIB) has provided a loan to West Suffolk Council to support the expansion of its net zero initiatives, aiming to decarbonise both council operations and the local business community.
The financing will bolster West Suffolk’s successful Solar for Business Scheme, which has deployed £7.5 million and 8.7MW of solar energy since 2012. The expanded scheme will now offer more businesses in the area the opportunity to install rooftop solar panels, delivering low-cost, low-carbon electricity.
Additionally, the funds will enable the council to improve energy efficiency across its own estate, with projects including the installation of heat pumps, enhanced insulation, and renewable energy sources. The loan will also support the transition of the council’s vehicle fleet to electric, further reducing carbon emissions.