COMPANIES in the region are to be offered the chance to take part in a simulation project to prepare them for the introduction of the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC).

CRC, which comes into force in April, will require organisations to monitor and report the amount of energy they use, with organisations using more than 6,000MWh (mega watts per hour) being required to buy allowances to cover future emissions.

Energy consultancy TNEI has been appointed by development agency One North East to help businesses prepare for the CRC and to run a 12-month simulation project.

Specialists at TNEI will work with participating companies to undertake energy assessments, help companies produce carbon reduction plans, ensuring firms understand the new rules and regulations and positioning them so they can benefit from the CRC legislation.

Due to their size and energy spend, it is expected that about 150 organisations in the North-East will have to take part in the full CRC scheme.

Places on the simulation scheme are limited to 50 with over half already filled. One North East is urging any business that thinks it may be affected by CRC to contact it to get involved.

To take part, contact Kate Hatton, on 0191-2296323 or email kate.hatton@onenorth east.co.uk, or visit onenortheast.co.uk/carbonreduction