The recently introduced Climate Change Levy is a new tax on energy use in industry, commerce, agriculture and the public sector. There are exemptions for some forms of renewable energy, and discounts in the levy rate where energy intensive users have signed up to energy saving targets agreed between government and relevant trade associations. The measure is designed to be 'revenue neutral' with funds collected being recycled to industry through reductions in the employers National Insurance rate, and increased support for energy efficiency investment - via tax allowances. Frequently turning lights on and off reduces lamp life. It used to be common practice to leave lighting on unless it was not required for several hours.
Rebates are subject to funding availability.
The scheme is for private sector businesses that employ less than 250 employees and have an annual turnover of less than 25million. Therefore Government funded premises are excluded from the scheme. The Lightswitch Programme invites all lighting equipment manufacturers to participate in the project, by advertising the opportunity through various routes - including the Lighting Industry Federation, the Energy Systems Trade Association, the Lighting Association, and Lighting Electrical News. The list is not closed, and any manufacturer can request an application form. The only criteria is that participating manufacturers have ISO9000 Quality Assurance and at least 3 years in business as a lighting product manufacturer.