Grants up to $50,000 for Queensland-based manufacturers to increase energy efficiency measures and technology, reduce energy usage, costs, emissions and increase awareness of energy use.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant?
The Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant (MEEG) Program Round 2 is a Queensland Government initiative designed to support small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector. The program aims to help these businesses enhance their competitiveness in a low-carbon future by implementing energy efficiency measures that reduce energy costs and operational emissions. The program is part of the Queensland Government’s broader efforts under the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan and the Advanced Manufacturing 10 Year Roadmap and Action Plan.
MEEG level of support
Minimum and Maximum Funding: Grants of between $7,500 and $50,000 are available.
Co-Contribution Requirement: For lighting projects, the grant can cover up to 100% of eligible project costs. For all other eligible projects, the grant covers up to 75% of the costs, with the remaining 25% to be funded by the applicant.
MEEG important dates
- This program is currently closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
MEEG objectives
The MEEG Program aims to:
- Increase the uptake of energy efficiency measures by Queensland-based manufacturing SMEs.
- Support these businesses in reducing energy usage and costs.
- Enable carbon emissions reduction to support Queensland’s commitment to net-zero by 2050.
- Increase awareness of energy use among manufacturers.
Project focus areas
To qualify for MEEG funding, projects must align with at least two of the program objectives and focus on one or more of the following areas:
- Compressed Air Improvements: For example, replacing air compressors with higher efficiency units.
- Electrification: Converting gas or fuel-based processes to electric alternatives.
- Heat Pumps: Replacing gas-fired boilers with heat pump units.
- Industrial Refrigeration and HVAC: Upgrading to more energy-efficient models.
- Lighting: Installing LED lighting and automatic control equipment.
- Energy Monitoring Systems: Implementing systems to monitor and reduce energy use.
- Replacement of Equipment: Upgrading equipment to more energy-efficient models.
Projects and expenditure eligible for MEEG support
The following types of projects are not eligible for MEEG funding:
- Projects that have already commenced before the grant agreement is executed.
- Projects that are the same as those funded under MEEG Round 1 or other government grants.
- Projects that involve energy generation, such as installing solar panels or biomass systems.
- Like-for-like replacement of existing equipment without energy efficiency improvements.
Eligible expenditure:
- Costs directly related to the implementation of the eligible project.
- Purchase and installation of energy-efficient equipment.
- Development of an Energy Action Plan by a third-party contractor.
- Licensing fees required for the operation of energy monitoring software (up to one year).
Ineligible expenditure:
- Costs incurred before the execution of the grant agreement.
- Normal operational costs such as utilities, rent, and telecommunications charges.
- Salaries, human resources costs, and general maintenance or repair costs.
- Purchase of second-hand, leased, or hire-purchased equipment.
- Costs associated with preparing the MEEG application.
- Costs related to energy generation equipment like solar panels.
See the guidelines for full details of projects and expenditure eligible for MEEG support.
Other MEEG important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for MEEG support
To be eligible for the MEEG Program, applicants must:
- Be a Queensland-based manufacturing SME with 5-200 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees.
- Be registered for GST and hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Have been operating in Queensland for at least 12 months prior to the application.
- Propose a project that meets the eligibility criteria specified in the guidelines.
MEEG assessment criteria
- Energy Efficiency and Emissions Reduction Potential: The project must demonstrate the ability to achieve at least a 10% reduction in energy usage or carbon emissions, with clear comparisons between current and proposed systems.
- Alignment with Business Sustainability Goals: The project should align with the applicant’s long-term sustainability objectives, clearly contributing to reducing the business’s environmental impact.
- Project Deliverability and Feasibility: The project plan must be realistic, with a clear timeline, milestones, and risk mitigation strategies, demonstrating the applicant’s ability to deliver the project within budget and timeframe.
- Financial Viability and Stability: Applicants must show strong financial health and capacity to complete the project, with the necessary financial documents supporting their ability to fund non-grant portions.
- Impact on Business Operations and Competitiveness: The project should enhance the business’s competitiveness by reducing costs, improving product quality, or increasing production efficiency.
- Innovation and Replicability: Projects that introduce innovative approaches to energy efficiency or have the potential to be replicated across the industry will be highly valued.
How do I get the MEEG?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the MEEG application
Applicants should prepare the following:
- A completed application form with details on business eligibility, project description, and alignment with program objectives.
- Financial statements, recent energy bills, and quotes for project costs.
- Evidence of the business’s capacity to fund the project’s non-grant portion.
Applying for the MEEG
Businesses must submit an online application through the Queensland Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing, and Water’s website.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
MEEG resources
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