How your business could save with an energy health check

Understand your energy costs

Most often, the term; “energy-efficiency” refers to simply decreasing the amount of energy you’re using. But for many businesses, there’s an opportunity to ensure that the energy you’re using is working for you. Understanding your energy bill and how you use energy is the first step towards getting the most out of it.

Look at demand management

Australia’s energy networks are under the biggest strain during high demand times, or what’s known as electricity peak times. During these times, the cost of energy is usually higher because of the infrastructure needed to deliver it. To take the pressure off the country’s electricity networks, many energy providers offer incentives such as cheaper prices during off-peak times. Depending on the type of business you run, it may be worth exploring whether an off-peak energy rate could help reduce your bill. 

Assess the effectiveness of your electricity

If you own or manage a large business¹ then the term Power Factor should be one you’re familiar with — understanding it could help you lower your business’ demand charges, and therefore, your running costs.

Power Factor refers to the effectiveness of incoming electricity. Sometimes, a poor power factor can affect the performance of equipment, since it uses more electricity to operate. Power Factor Correction units are available to increase the efficiency of your power supply (and may reduce your energy costs). Our business experts break down everything you need to know about Power Factor for your business.

Request a tariff review

A tariff is a pricing structure – set by the distributor in your area – it’s the way that your business is charged for the energy used.

Network tariffs are regulated by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and are usually set according to your previous consumption levels, location, the time you use the most electricity and your ongoing demand.

By assessing the way your business is consuming energy, via the usage patterns on your bill or our online portal, there may be an opportunity to change your tariff and explore whether a different tariff would suit your needs better. Reach out to our Business team who would be happy to review the available tariffs with you.

Go solar

We know how important it is for business owners to make financial decisions that are smart and efficient. Investing in solar allows you to reduce your electricity bills by harnessing energy from the sun during the day, which is when many businesses are typically using the most electricity. And with the development of alternate payment options, businesses now have more flexibility when it comes to purchasing a solar system. 

Beyond reducing your overheads, solar is a great way to help your business reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and reach your decarbonisation goals. 

If you use more electricity during daylight hours, solar power could help you cut down your business operating costs by taking control of the costs of daytime energy. Businesses that own the property or have a long-term lease, with large roof space that isn’t blocked by too much shade could benefit from installing solar panels.