NSW businesses supported to plan for net zero emissions

Applications are now open for a $1.5 million grant program to help eligible businesses plan and take action to achieve net zero emissions.

NSW businesses play an essential role in achieving the state’s net zero goals. Taking action on emissions reduction will strengthen their global competitiveness, build resilience, and drive innovation and growth.

The Net Zero Planning Grant offers eligible businesses in all sectors up to $30,000, covering up to 75% of project costs, to identify and implement actions towards net zero.

Eligible projects could include developing greenhouse gas inventory, developing a net zero stakeholder engagement plan and formulating a net zero action plan or a net zero target.

The Grant is provided in two stages:

• Stage 1: Up to $4,000 to access expert advisors to identify and prioritise key actions across areas such as strategy, governance, people and capability, data, targets, net zero action planning, finance, reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• Stage 2: Up to $26,000 to support detailed work in one or more of the prioritised actions.

Grantees can also access the Net Zero Business Guide, developed following a pilot program with more than 50 organisations to provide practical guidance throughout their net zero journey.

The grant is part of the NSW Government’s $22 million Business Decarbonisation Program, supporting businesses implement low-cost improvements and accelerate their transition to net zero.

The NSW Government has delivered on its promise to make action on climate change a whole of government priority, by enshrining emissions reduction targets in law. Legislation mandates a 50% reduction on 2005 levels by 2030, a 70% reduction by 2035 and Net Zero by 2050.

Round 1 of the Net Zero Planning grant is now open for applications, visit the NSW Climate and Energy action website for more information and to check your businesses’ eligibility.

Quotes attributable to DCCEEW Director of Program and Market Development, Terry Niemeier:

“We understand that transitioning to a net zero future can be complex for businesses to navigate.

“As we work towards a net zero future we want to work with businesses to unlock opportunities for innovation, growth and resilience.

“This Grant empowers businesses to turn their plans into a reality – whether it’s setting a net zero target, developing a greenhouse gas inventory or formulating a net zero action plan.”