LIVERPOOL Lord Mayor Cllr Mike Storey was today urging businesses throughout the region to exploit funding to scrap outdated plant and improve their energy efficiency.

Cllr Storey was backing a drive to persuade firms to take out unsecured interest-free loans under the Carbon Trust’s Big Business Refit scheme offering £100m to help small and medium-sized companies slash their energy costs.

He told LDP Business: “Liverpool businesses could cut a staggering £25m off their annual energy bills simply by scrapping old energy-guzzling kit and replacing it with modern technology.

“The marvellous thing about the Big Business Refit is that it gives firms cash to improve their business at a time when credit from other sources is hard to find.

“With no interest to pay and no security required, it is a fantastic deal. I’d urge all Liverpool businesses to find out if they’re eligible for the money, and to take their share now, before it runs out.”

Today’s event was hosted by Aintree-based wood flooring firm Universal Mouldings.

Managing director Nicholaa Brady said: “We’ve taken advantage of a Carbon Trust loan of £68,600 to replace old, inefficient heating.

“As a result, we’re saving over £23,000 a year on our energy bills.”