In December, following an announcement by the Scottish Government, the Loan Action Scotland (LAS) programme was transferred to the Energy Saving Trust in Scotland to manage and administer.

The scheme has changed in name from Loan Action Scotland to Energy Saving Scotland - small business loans

The minimum loan value has been reduced from £5,000 to £1,000. The maximum loan remains at £100,000.

Loans for renewable installations (although eligible under the previous scheme) are more attractive for businesses due to an extended payback period and the fact that the loan value for renewable installations is no longer linked to the predicted energy savings calculated during an energy audit/review.

Private sector landlords are eligible to apply under the new criteria.

For more information, businesses should contact their local Energy Saving Scotland advice centre on 0800 512 012 or visit the website following the above link, where the new 'Energy Saving Scotland - small business loans' application form and brochure can be downloaded.