 'Free' efficient lighting at JIT Doubled Carbon Trust loans mean 'free' energy saving equipment
October 29th 2008 The Carbon Trust has £35million in interest-free loans for SME's looking to invest in energy saving products. Last year 800 firms secured loans from the trust. This year more are expected to apply - especially as the loan maximum has been doubled to £200K.
JIT Logistics is one firm that’s replaced its traditional, energy-sapping metal halide lights with efficient versions thanks to a Carbon Trust loan.
Nottinghamshire-based JIT, the parts distributor for John Deere Tractors, secured £6,090 to buy 21 high-tech Eluma lamps from lighting specialist Somar International to illuminate its 12,000sq ft warehouse.
The high-reflectance 'intelligent' flourescent lights – which feature sensors to switch off or dim bulbs according to pedestrian traffic and natural light levels – will save the company 65 per cent on its annual lighting bill.
And as the monthly loan repayment of £170 is less than the amount saved on electricity every month, the lights have effectively come free of charge.
Company Secretary Jill Blake, said: “The whole process was remarkably quick: the loan was approved within a week and it took less than two weeks from sending in the invoice to the money being in our account and a direct debit repayment schedule being set up.
“I still don’t think many SME owners are aware that financial help is available to them. But given the current climate I expect that more companies will start knocking at the Carbon Trust’s door.”
To apply, go to: www.carbontrust.co.uk/energy/takingaction/loans More articles from The Carbon Trust: | 
