BUSINESSES and community buildings leading the way in installing renewable energy are on track to achieve a carbon saving of almost 84 tonnes each year.

Across Shropshire eight small and medium enterprises, from breweries to coach companies, town councils and village halls, have been successful in achieving funding to support renewable energy projects totalling £263,681.

The funding has come through the Marches Renewable Energy Grant Scheme, providing small and medium-sized enterprises in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, with a 50 per cent grant towards installing renewable energy at their premises.

The scheme covers a range of renewable technologies including solar PV and air and ground source heat pumps, and offers financial help to businesses to plan for the future by making their energy supply sustainable and efficient.

Chelmarsh Village Hall has won 50 per cent funding to install an air source heat pump