Small solar generation firms and those engaged in energy storage can apply for a share of £19 million from the second round of a government fund unveiled today.

The Department of Energy and Climate Change's (DECC) Energy Entrepreneurs Fund has already allocated £16 million from the first round announced in 2012.

It is aimed at assisting small and medium sized enterprises, including start-ups, with the successful firms receiving additional funding for incubation support.

Energy secretary Ed Davey said: “This funding will get ideas off the ground and into the market, create new green jobs, and help the UK get ahead in the innovation global race.”

DECC said that it expects to open calls for projects every four to six months until the full funding has been allocated.

Applicants will need to provide evidence of the impact on government carbon targets, technical viability, value for money and the size of the business opportunity.

The deadline for the first call for applications within the second phase is 12 July, with applicants required to register their contact details with DECC by 5 July.

The previous phase funded projects including energy storage, heat storage, tidal turbine testing, a thermally-insulating window and an ‘eco power shower’.