The Climate Change Levy: What Is It, What Discounts are Available and How Can Your Business Make the Most of Them?
The 2001 Climate Change Levy has been updated this year, with new tax rates for gas and other fuels. But did you know that you can get an enormous discount if you show the government how you’re saving energy? as well as how your business can make the most of them. We also offer some useful tips for improving energy efficiency, as required by the scheme.
The Climate Change Levy (CCL) is not a new piece of legislation. In fact, it was introduced in 2001, with the purpose of encouraging businesses to save carbon emissions throughout their operations. Fast forward to 2024 and both these regulations, as well as global engagement on climate change, have changed considerably.
So what exactly does CCL mean for businesses today, and how can your business see optimum benefit from this scheme?
What is CCL and who is affected by it?
CCL was originally introduced in 2001 with the purpose of encouraging businesses to be more energy efficient on-site. Gas, electricity, coal and other energy sources are taxed, with the exception of road fuels and certain other oils which are charged for “excise duty.” CCL focuses on energy consumed in buildings, namely those of the following sectors: public services, industrial, commercial and agricultural. The Climate Change Levy does not apply to charities.
Although CCL is a tax for carbon emissions, the legislation also includes a discount scheme aimed at incentivising businesses to save energy. In order to qualify for this discount, businesses must hold a Climate Change Agreement (CCA) with the Environmental Agency. Once qualified, discount businesses receive is usually a significant portion of the overall tax.
CCL and CCA legislation is separate from the Carbon Price Support (CPS), which is a charge for emissions that is paid by power stations.
CCL: 2001 to 2024
One of the key changes for CCL in 2024 is the increase in the main rate charged for different fuels, including an increase for Natural Gas per kWh and the Other Solid Fuels category (excluding Electricity and Liquified Petroleum Gas, or LPG). Below is a breakdown of the changes, courtesy of Inspired PLC.