Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant (MEEG) Program

Purpose and Program Overview

The Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant (MEEG) Program supports Queensland-based manufacturers in adopting energy-efficient technologies and processes. It aims to reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and cut carbon emissions to enhance competitiveness in a low-carbon future.

The MEEG program, part of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, provides $7.1 million across two rounds. It aligns with the Queensland Government’s Advanced Manufacturing 10-Year Roadmap, fostering sustainability and job creation in the manufacturing sector.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Up to $50,000 per project.

• Application open and close dates: Round 2 open until 30 June 2025 or until funds are exhausted.

• Eligible industries or business types: Manufacturers with principal activity and majority turnover from manufacturing.

• Required co-contributions: Yes, 25% for non-lighting projects; none for lighting projects.

• Location/state/territory applicability: Queensland.

Priority Sectors

The program prioritises the manufacturing sector, focusing on small to medium enterprises adopting energy-efficient technologies and processes.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts: Minimum $7,500 (lighting, excluding GST) or $10,000 (other projects, excluding GST); maximum $50,000.

• Categories or streams of funding:

  • Lighting upgrades: Up to 100% of project costs.

  • Other energy efficiency projects: Up to 75% of project costs (e.g., equipment upgrades, process optimisation).

• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: Projects must be completed within 12 months of grant agreement.

Grant Amount in Total

The full grant amount offered totals $7.1 million across two rounds.

Eligibility Criteria of MEEG

• Business structure or size: Small to medium businesses with fewer than 200 employees.

• Registered business location: Queensland, with principal activity and majority turnover from manufacturing.

• Minimum/maximum turnover: Not specified.

• Insurance or compliance obligations: Must comply with grant agreement terms; no specific insurance requirements noted.

• ABN/GST status: Active ABN required; GST registration if applicable.

• Additional requirements: Projects must achieve at least 10% energy or emissions reduction.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Replacement of non-LED lighting with LED lighting.

• Upgrades to motors, compressed air systems, or heat pump dryers.

• Conversion of gas or fuel processes to electric systems.

• Purchase of energy-efficient capital equipment.

Assessment Process

• Competitive or entitlement-based: Competitive, assessed based on application quality.

• Key evaluation criteria:

  • Demonstrated energy or emissions reduction (minimum 10%).

  • Project feasibility and alignment with Queensland’s sustainability goals.

  • Value for money and economic benefits.

Recent Program Updates

Round 1 closed on 30 June 2024, with applications under assessment. Round 2 opened in 2024, offering increased funding up to $50,000 (from $25,000 in Round 1) and 100% funding for lighting projects following industry feedback.

Application Tips for Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant

• Review the Application Guide to confirm project eligibility and assessment criteria.

• Prepare evidence of energy savings, such as energy audits or supplier quotes.

• Align projects with Queensland’s net-zero emissions by 2050 target.

• Submit applications early via the SmartyGrants portal to secure funding.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. Visit the Queensland Government website for application forms and guidelines.