An energy consultancy in Solihull has expanded into new premises after receiving grant funding from a business development programme.

Ecuity specialises in energy and environmental regulation and advises companies in the UK and abroad on political aspects of developing markets for low carbon energy products and services.

It was founded by James Higgins and Dave Sowden in 2012 and currently employs 15 people advising on issues such as renewable energy generation and smart grids.

It received undisclosed funding from the Business Development Programme which is run by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership.

Ecuity has used the capital to expand into new offices at Radcliffe House, Blenheim Court.

Mr Higgins said: "The grant has come at a perfect time in our development, moving into a larger open plan office has enabled us to create a workspace consistent with our values and our brand.

"It's really helped us rethink the way in which our staff collaborate and share ideas and new ways of working."

The Business Development Programme is an £8 million business support initiative aimed at helping more than 200 small- and medium-sized businesses across the LEP's area.

Grants will cover 45 per cent of the costs of an eligible project, subject to criteria.