A Staffordshire businessman said today it would be “disappointing and frustrating” if the Government drastically reduces its energy bills support for SMEs.
Reports are circulating that the subsidy for the non-domestic sector is to become less generous for all except heavy users, with an announcement expected next week.
John Tudor, Chairman of Access Covers in Rugeley, pictured above, was hoping there might be good news for small to medium-sized enterprises when the Energy Bill Relief Scheme is renewed beyond March 20.
Access Covers’ electricity bill for last year was £30,000 – but this year it will rise to £100,000.
John, pictured above, said: “A reduction in the amount of subsidy would be disappointing.
“As a medium-sized company we will make do and mend – we will have to adjust.
“It will mean we will not be able to invest in more machinery next year.
“But put yourself in the shoes of small businesses such as kiln specialists in Staffordshire – the uplift in energy bills is going to be some challenge.
“It could without doubt push them into insolvency at best.
“It’s frustrating, a sad state of affairs.”
Access Covers, based in Rugeley, are manufacturers of high-quality access covers, steel manhole covers and auxiliary drainage products.
