We have secured £250,000 to help a limited number of businesses on the Isles of Scilly to install rainwater harvesting systems. These systems will allow rainwater to be stored in tanks for non-potable uses such as toilets, washing machines, process water and irrigation.
By harvesting rainwater in this way, the successful applicants can reduce the energy required for water treatment on the islands and reduce their own business costs. The climate of the Isles of Scilly is expected to get drier and warmer in future. Rainwater harvesting can help us adapt to these changes.
The funding has been sourced from the European Regional Development Fund and will help to cover costs related to design, specification, equipment, storage, delivery and installation. The cost of the internal plumbing must be met by the successful applicants and all works must be completed by 23 December 2022.
Councillor Steve Watt, Lead Member for Environment, Environmental Services and Climate Change, said: “with freshwater resources on the islands under continued pressure, rainwater harvesting is a fantastic way to help meet demand in a sustainable way and to support businesses in adapting to climate change."
How to apply for the funding
To find out more about eligibility and how to apply, visit our rainwater harvesting grant webpage. If you have any questions about the application process, you can email adaptivescilly@scilly.gov.uk or call 07871 982 639.
Application forms must be submitted by 5pm on Monday, 25 April 2022.