£60 million fund open for low carbon projects

The Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme (LCITP) will fund large scale projects which support the ambitions of the Scottish Government’s new Scotland’s Energy Strategy, which was published in December 2017.

LCITP is a working partnership between the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Futures Trust and sector specialists.

It is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Projects which deliver low carbon heating solutions, integrated energy systems, and ultra-low emission vehicle charging infrastructure will be able to apply. Up to £100,000 will be available to develop investment-ready business cases or financial support of up to 50% of the total capital value of a project up to a maximum of £10 million per project is available for capital–ready projects.

The Climate Change Secretary, Roseanna Cunningham, officially launched the fund at an event at Scotland House in London on Monday 22 January which was attended by business leaders, climate experts and environmental campaigners.

Speaking at the event, Ms Cunningham said: “We have, first and foremost, a moral obligation to fight climate change.

“But for a nation with Scotland’s resources and skills, the transition to a more prosperous, low carbon and circular economy also presents a valuable economic opportunity.

“We are determined to attract, retain and develop the low carbon innovators who will shape our future.

“That is why I am delighted to confirm that we are now accepting applications from innovative local energy projects to the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme.”

Audrey MacIver, director of energy and low carbon, said: “HIE very much welcomes this latest call.  The Low Carbon Innovation Fund presents real and significant opportunities for our people, businesses and communities. 

“It offers further opportunity to build upon the innovative projects already being developed in the Highlands and Islands such as the Surf n’ Turf project in Orkney, the ACCESS project in Mull, and the electrification of Fair Isle, all demonstrating the potential of low carbon, sustainable energy systems.”

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf added: “The Scottish Government is committed to the introduction of a cleaner, greener transport network and ultra-low emission vehicle infrastructure is central to that.

“I am pleased we are making such a significant sum available to encourage innovative local solutions to some of our most challenging national issues.

“I would encourage any interested business or organisation to apply for support under the scheme, and explore how we can work together to realise the environmental and economic potential of low carbon infrastructure solutions.”

The deadline for development stage applications is 30 April 2018. Further information is at http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Business-Industry/Energy/Action/lowcarbon/LCITP/LCIFI