Cornwall’s Good Growth Programme Leads Charge Towards Greener Future

Cornwall is moving forward in its journey towards environmental sustainability, propelled by the £137 million investment fund from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme. Overseen by Cornwall Council and funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, this programme is setting the stage for significant climate action across the region.

Transformative Green Investments

To date, the programme has channelled over £24 million into projects aimed at achieving net zero emissions and supporting decarbonisation efforts. Among these efforts, more than £10 million has been invested specifically in installing zero-carbon technologies and implementing energy efficiency upgrades. As a result, Cornwall is seeing tangible progress, including the creation of 149 decarbonisation plans and the provision of grants to 83 local businesses. Forecasts suggest these measures will contribute to a reduction of over 49,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e).

Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for economy, highlighted the transformative nature of the initiative: “The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme is playing a transformative role in helping our region embrace a greener future. By investing in decarbonisation projects and green skills development, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint and equipping local businesses and communities with the tools they need to thrive in a net-zero economy, but also delivering against the emerging priorities of the government’s modern industrial strategy.”

Supporting Businesses and Communities

The Good Growth Programme has mandated that all 142 funded projects align with principles that focus on CO2e reduction, circular economy practices, and nature recovery. This structured approach has been pivotal in helping organisations embark on or enhance their decarbonisation efforts.

An example of the programme’s impact is Saltash-based Secure Innovation. The technology firm utilised part of its £600,000 grant to install solar panels and electric vehicle chargers, enabling it to generate nearly two-thirds of its required energy on-site. Meanwhile, Eliquo Hydrock in Indian Queens, which manufactures water treatment technology, reported a dramatic cut of £240,000 in its annual electricity expenses thanks to its solar panel installation, improving both cost-efficiency and competitive standing.

Green Skills for a Sustainable Economy

Beyond immediate carbon reductions, the Good Growth Programme has committed £14 million to strategic growth projects that support green skills development and zero-carbon infrastructure. Initiatives like The Future is Green, backed by a £2 million award, are equipping individuals and businesses with the expertise needed for a low-carbon economy. The programme aims for 319 individuals to obtain qualifications in green skills and is assisting 426 people in transitioning from high-carbon industries to more sustainable roles.

Pioneering Energy Solutions

Cornwall’s unique position, with access to the Celtic Sea, makes it an ideal hub for developing zero-carbon energy solutions. The Cornwall FLOW Commission, funded with £1 million, is focused on advancing Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) technology. This project, led by Cornwall Council-owned Celtic Sea Power, is collaborating with a broad array of stakeholders to ensure Cornwall benefits from the significant potential of offshore wind.

Agriculture and Community Projects

Cornwall’s agricultural sector has also seen focused support. The Agri Carbon Kernow project received £365,257 to assist farmers in lowering their carbon output, enhancing water resilience, and advancing nature recovery efforts. Additionally, the Net Zero Methane Hub, awarded £245,523, is working to capture and utilise methane, a potent greenhouse gas, thereby reducing emissions and fostering economic opportunities for the region’s farming community.

Projects such as Upcycle Kernow, with a £374,067 award, illustrate the programme’s commitment to community transformation. This initiative is creating energy-efficient community hubs that serve as centres for sustainable activities, including repair workshops and recycling.

A Forward-Looking Vision

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme is laying the groundwork for a sustainable economy through targeted investments and strategic projects. Louis said: “The Good Growth Programme is laying the foundations for long-term economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that Cornwall leads the way in the UK’s green industrial revolution.”

For more information about the programme, visit ciosgoodgrowth.com and learn about the UK Shared Prosperity Fund here.

Photo: Good Growth-funded solar panel installations at Secure Innovation in Saltash and Eliquo Hydrock at Indian Queens.