AIB has launched a low-interest Business Sustainability Loan to help Irish SMEs, farmers, and community groups invest in green initiatives. Offering up to €100,000 at a 4.95% variable rate, the loan supports projects like renewable energy, zero-emission vehicles, and green buildings—backed by expert guidance through AIB’s Steps to Sustainability programme.
Allied Irish Banks (AIB) has introduced a new Green Loan designed to support Irish businesses—including farmers, clubs, trusts, and charities—as they transition and invest in sustainable, low‑carbon operations. The low-rate Business Sustainability loan initiative is firmly rooted in AIB’s ongoing commitment to help SMEs transition ecologically and efficiently.
Green loans are specifically designed to finance projects that have a positive environmental impact. AIB’s green loans provide businesses with access to funds for various eco-friendly initiatives, including:
– Energy efficiency upgrades: Investments in technologies that reduce energy consumption.
– Renewable energy projects: Financing solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable sources to power operations.
– Sustainable transport solutions: Funding for electric vehicles or cargo bikes to reduce carbon footprints.
– Waste reduction initiatives: Projects focused on recycling and minimising waste production.
Loan Amount & Term: Borrow between €2,000 and €100,000; repayable over 1 to 7 years.
Interest Rate: A competitive variable rate of 4.95%
Smart Repayment Options: Flexible repayment schedules available to suit diverse business cash flows.
Businesses can apply for funding to support a wide range of sustainability projects, including:
Renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines
Green or renovated buildings meeting at least B3 BER / EPC B standards
Zero-emission vehicles and EV charging infrastructure
Circular economy & waste management initiatives
Forestry, biodiversity, pollution control, and green agricultural practices
Applicants must supply proof—like supplier quotes, invoices, or BER/EPC certificates—before accessing funds .
As Geraldine Casey, AIB’s Retail Banking Managing Director, points out:
“Greening your business can help reduce costs, drive efficiencies and competitiveness, attract new customers and staff, and, vitally, protect businesses against future climate risks.”
She emphasises that SMEs form the backbone of the Irish economy, and AIB is committed to helping them thrive in a low‑carbon future. The bank supports this through both financial products and advisory services.
AIB offers more than financing—it also provides a structured support programme for SMEs. The Steps to Sustainability Programme online guide aims to help businesses develop a tailored sustainability plan.
AIB’s combination of funding and know‑how aims to help businesses reduce costs, enhance brand value, engage staff and customers, and manage future environmental risks.
The loan is open to all AIB business customers in the Republic of Ireland—SMEs, agricultural enterprises, community groups, trusts, and charities who are interesting in making their operations more green. Applications are assessed based on:
Match between the investment and eligible sustainability purposes
Availability of support documentation (quotes, invoices, BER/EPC certificates)
Reach out via your AIB Relationship Manager, call the number on their website, or visit one of AIB’s 170+ branches across Ireland.
Prepare documentation showing the eco‑investment purpose—e.g. quotes or valid BER/EPC certifications.
Discuss suitable repayment terms and loan structure with a business advisor.
AIB’s Green Loan offers Irish businesses a practical, financially viable route to invest in low‑carbon projects—covering solar power, energy-efficient buildings, EV fleets, waste systems, forestry, and more. Backed by a sub‑5% variable rate, flexible terms, and comprehensive advisory tools, it positions SMEs to capture cost savings, enhance competitiveness, and build resilience in the face of climate challenges.
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