Waterford City and County Council has introduced a 9 per cent rates discount as part of its A Cleaner, Greener Waterford initiative, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.

The Local Authority is launching its Business Pledge for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford on Monday 2nd September. Previously known as the Commercial Energy Discount Scheme, which was introduced in 2022, the initiative has already helped thousands of businesses across the city and county move towards carbon neutrality.

Businesses are encouraged to take the Business Pledge to contribute to a cleaner, greener Waterford by committing to at least two actions within the next 12 months that will reduce their carbon footprint. In return, businesses that fulfil the pledge and have paid their rates in full will receive a 9 per cent discount. Waterford City and County Council is pursuing its own climate goals, and the Business Pledge offers local businesses a chance to support these efforts while being rewarded for their commitment to sustainability.

In 2023, 800 businesses took advantage of the scheme by identifying opportunities for reducing energy usage and costs, exploring the potential of renewable energy while availing of a discount on their commercial rates.

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Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Gráinne Kennedy said: "Waterford City and County Council is currently the only local authority delivering such an initiative in Ireland, and by working with local businesses we can collectively make Waterford the most sustainable place in Ireland to do business. We have reached out to local Ambassadors who are making day-to-day changes that will have a positive, far-reaching impact on the environment, on their costs and on the future."

Dooley's Hotel in Waterford City is implementing changes to improve energy efficiency and reduce waste by altering its use of ingredients, food service practices, and in-house laundry operations.

Cantec Group is supporting the Business Pledge by reusing packaging and pallets, transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric vehicles, and providing clients with remanufactured machines that cut carbon emissions by 80 per cent. In An Rinn, Powerflow Electronics utilises energy from solar panels and recycles packaging and parts, while Blossom and Berry Florists in Lismore sources flowers and packaging materials ethically.

Gráinne added: "By being more aware of energy saving opportunities and exploring renewable energy options, businesses can not only save money, but they can effect real change by adopting a sustainability strategy and reducing carbon emissions. Collectively, these changes have the potential to achieve a positive impact for businesses across Waterford."

The scheme is available to businesses with an annual rates bill of less than €10,000 or those in the hospitality and leisure sectors. Eligible businesses can receive a 9 per cent discount on their rates once they submit details of their planned sustainability measures for the coming year.

Submissions open on Monday 2 September and to avail of the rates discount, accounts must also be fully paid by 23:55pm on October 18 2024 or are in an agreed Direct Debit payment plan. The credit will be applied after the deadline once the requirements have been met.

Image Credit: Patrick Browne