A family-run attraction in South Staffordshire has halved its electricity bills after installing solar panels with support from a county council support programme.

Now other local businesses are being urged to take advantage of the same funding from the Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) while it’s still available.

Lower Drayton Farm, home to the popular indoor playbarn PLAY@ Lower Drayton Farm near Penkridge, received a free on-site energy assessment through the county council’s BEAS scheme. The assessment, delivered by independent specialists Pro Enviro Ltd, identified opportunities to cut energy use and costs – recommending solar panels as the best next step.

With a £20,000 grant from South Staffordshire Council and a £20,000 interest-free loan from Staffordshire County Council through BEAS, the farm invested £40,000 in solar technology which now powers the playbarn’s operations, including the café, air conditioning and entertainment systems.

Business owner Richard Bower said:

We’re already seeing our electricity bills cut in half, saving around £1,500 a month, or £18,000 a year. The process with the county council was really straightforward and supportive. I’d say to any other business: don’t be put off by thinking it’s complicated. This team genuinely wants to help you save money and grow your business sustainably.

For us, this support has been a lifeline during tough economic times. It’s saving costs from day one and helping us do our bit for the environment too.”

WATCH: Richard explains for BEAS supported his business.

Martin Murray, deputy leader of Staffordshire County Council and cabinet member for economy and skills, said:

Lower Drayton Farm is a fantastic example of how investing in energy efficiency makes good business sense. By reducing running costs, businesses can become more resilient, reinvest savings, and grow, all while contributing to a stronger local economy.

Our local businesses are the beating heart of the UK economy, and Staffordshire is right at its centre. Through BEAS, we’re proud to help more firms access the practical support and funding they need to thrive.”

The Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) is funded by the UK Government and delivered locally by Staffordshire County Council. The scheme offers free energy assessments, 50 per cent match-funded grants of up to £100,000, and interest-free energy efficiency loans to help Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent SMEs cut energy costs and improve efficiency.

With an additional £1million of funding for Staffordshire businesses recently announced, businesses in the county are urged to act now, and can arrange for the free energy assessment worth £1,100 as well as start the process to access the grant funding at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/BEAS.

Richard Bower – Lower Drayton Farm