Mark Vender
The Victorian government has launched the Small Business Energy Saver Program through Sustainability Victoria. The initiative will offer $5 million in bonuses to small businesses across the state to support their transition to a low-cost, energy-efficient business model.
Victorian small businesses with 19 full-time employees or fewer can receive up to $2,000 to install energy-efficient business equipment at their workplace. Eligible upgrades include heat pump hot water systems, space heating and cooling systems, refrigerators and upright freezers, refrigerated display cabinets, fan motors in refrigeration systems, water efficient pre-rinse spray valves, and low-flow shower heads.
“By switching to energy-saving equipment upgrades offered by the Small Business Energy Saver Program, businesses can save 15–20 per cent of the upgraded equipment’s annual energy operational costs,” says Sustainability Victoria. “Small business owners can leverage the savings from reduced energy bills to focus on growing their business.
“By choosing to upgrade to new energy-saving equipment, business will proactively take the next step toward becoming energy-efficient and climate-proofing their work premises.
“A sustainable workplace offers employees the comfort of working in a ‘greener’ workspace and these benefits can also trickle down to environmentally conscious customers who know they are visiting a sustainable business.
“By making the switch to energy-saving equipment, businesses will contribute toward the Victorian government’s commitment to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”
Upgrades are available to small businesses across various sectors including hospitality, retail, accommodation, healthcare and professional services, and small-scale manufacturing.
The bonuses complement the incentives already available through the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.
The new incentives will be delivered to small businesses by accredited providers in partnership with local contractors to encourage new job growth through partnerships in regional Victoria.
Intermediary organisations will be in place to actively recruit small business participation and promote the benefits of the program in their geographic or industry sector.
For more information, view the Small Business Energy Saver Program page.
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