BURY businesses facing extra energy costs with the introduction of the Climate Change Levy are invited to attend a special workshop.

The event is being hosted by Bury Business Environment Association (BEA) and will be staged at the newly-opened Businesslodge in the town's Barcroft Street on Tuesday, March 27.

The Climate Change Levy will come under the microscope. This new business tax, which will apply to electricity, gas and coal bills from April 1, will affect all businesses within the UK.

Bury BEA say that although each case will be different, the Levy will typically add between eight and 25 per cent to business energy bills.

The aim is to reduce the amount of energy consumed by companies through the adoption of more energy-efficient practices and forms part of the Government's Climate Change programme.

The Levy will be partly offset by a reduction in employers' National Insurance contributions and through such mechanisms as discounted rates via Climate Change Levy agreements and enhanced capital allowances for energy-efficient investments.

At the workshop, which will take place between 9am and 1pm, delegates will be briefed about the introduction and operation of the Levy.

Details will also be given about Climate Change Levy agreements and the enhanced capital allowance scheme.

Cost per delegate is £70.50, including VAT. For more details and to book a place, contact Emma Critchley at Bury BEA on 763 4185.