Business support programs and advice
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Industry and government programs and advice are available to support businesses to better understand their energy use and implement energy-efficient practices, systems and technologies.
For more information on government funding options available, see the Grants and funding page.
Training support programs are outlined on the Energy efficiency training page.
National
Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP)
ACAP, comprising the Australian partners of the Australia-US Institute for Advanced Photovoltaics, is developing the next generations of photovoltaic technology, providing a pipeline of opportunities for performance increase and cost reduction.
Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA)
ARENA is an independent Commonwealth authority, supporting innovations that improve the competitiveness of renewable energy technologies and increase the supply of renewable energy in Australia. ARENA invests in research, development, demonstration, deployment and commercialisation of renewable energy and related technologies.
CitySwitch
CitySwitch is a free decarbonisation program for office-based businesses. It gives businesses a pathway to net zero so they can reduce their carbon emissions. Businesses can also connect with other businesses on the same path.
Businesses can access:
- free online resources
- regular education and networking events
- discounts on NABERS tenancy energy ratings
- one-to one support from an experienced program manager.
CitySwitch is possible thanks to the support of NABERS and council partners, including Cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, North Sydney, Waverley, Yarra and Ballarat.
Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)
The CEFC is a statutory authority established by the Australian Government to invest in Australia’s transition to lower emissions in:
- agriculture
- energy generation and storage
- infrastructure
- property
- transport
- waste.
It has published more than 100 case studies highlighting sustainability achievements around Australia.
Commercial Building Disclosure (CBD)
CBD is a national program designed to improve the energy efficiency of Australia’s large office buildings. Most sellers or lessors of office space of 1000 square metres or more are required to obtain and disclose a current Building Energy Efficiency Certificate (BEEC) under the Building Energy Efficiency Disclosure Act 2010.
Energy Efficiency in Government Operations (EEGO)
EEGO policy aims to reduce the energy consumption of Australian Government operations with particular emphasis on energy efficiency in buildings.
Energy Innovation Toolkit
The Energy Innovation Toolkit is a service offered by the Australian Government to help you launch your energy business idea and reduce barriers to energy innovation.
The toolkit is an interactive website and online portal that can help you to:
- understand energy regulation
- explore options to launch under current energy frameworks
- navigate energy sector stakeholders
- get clear guidance on who to contact and why
- access relief from regulatory barriers through proof-of-concept ‘sandbox’ trials.
Entrepeneurs' Programme
The Entrepreneurs’ Programme uses experienced advisers and facilitators, drawn from industry, to ensure businesses get the advice and support needed to improve their competiveness, productivity and to seek growth opportunities. Practical support for businesses includes:
- advice from people with relevant private sector experience
- co-funded grants to commercialise novel intellectual property
- funding to take advantage of growth opportunities
- connection and collaboration opportunities.
Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Program
The E3 Program is a cross-jurisdictional collaboration through which the Australian Government, the state and territory governments and the New Zealand Government collaborate to deliver a single, integrated program on energy efficiency standards and energy labelling for equipment and appliances.
National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS)
NABERS is a voluntary rating system that measures a commercial building’s sustainability performance. NABERS is run by the NSW Government on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) Scheme
The NGER Scheme established by the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007 (NGER Act), is a single national framework for reporting and disseminating company information about:
- greenhouse gas emissions
- energy production
- energy consumption
- other information specified under NGER legislation.
Research and Development Tax Incentive (R&DTI)
The R&DTI is a targeted, generous and easy to access entitlement program that helps businesses offset some of the costs of doing R&D. The program aims to help more businesses do R&D and innovate. It is a broad-based entitlement program meaning it is open to firms of all sizes in all sectors who are conducting eligible R&D.
ACT
ACT Smart Business Energy and Water Program
The ACT Smart Business Energy and Water Program offers rebates to eligible businesses wanting to upgrade to more water-efficient and energy-efficient technologies, including:
- lighting
- appliances
- heating or cooling
- refrigeration
- insulation
- toilets
- tapware.
Lighting Efficiency webtool
The Lighting Efficiency webtool has been designed by the ACT Government to help you assess your lighting efficiency plus suggestions on possible upgrades.
Next Generation Energy Storage Program
The Next Generation Energy Storage Program lets businesses access a discount to install a battery storage unit connected to a new or existing rooftop solar PV system.
NSW
Energy Saver
Energy Saver offers free training, online courses and webinars for small businesses seeking business energy advice.
There are also discounts and incentives for businesses to reduce energy use including several schemes which provide subsidies for new appliances and equipment.
Northern Territory
Smarter Business Solutions
The Smarter Business Solutions program provides funding and advice to Indigenous enterprises, businesses and not-for-profit organisations to help reduce energy, water, waste and material costs.
Queensland
Business Queensland
Business Queensland provides information on a range of topics including:
- energy pricing
- energy saving ideas
- solar for small to medium businesses
- regional electricity support packages.
ecoBiz
ecoBiz is a free program to assist businesses to save money on their energy, water and waste bills through energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives.
Cashback Rewards Program
The Energex Cashback Rewards Program offers eligible South East Queensland businesses financial support to upgrade certain appliances, equipment and processes to improve energy efficiency.
PeakSmart
PeakSmart air conditioning provides eligible businesses with financial incentives of up to $400 for purchasing and installing a PeakSmart air conditioner or converting an existing air conditioner to PeakSmart.
South Australia
Business Sustainability Program
The Business Sustainability Program provides assistance and funding to identify, prioritise and implement improvements in resource efficiency and recovery, and waste management.
Energy efficiency information and programs
The SA Government provides a list of services and grants to help businesses become more sustainable.
Victoria
Sustainability Victoria
Sustainability Victoria has a range of options to assist businesses to cut costs and boost productivity by saving energy and materials, as well as specialist staff to help identify funding sources.
Energy upgrades tool
Sustainability Victoria's energy upgrades tool can help you to:
- find common energy upgrade opportunities related to your business or building type
- uncover potential savings and return on investment
- view grants, incentives and finance to help fund the upgrade
- build a business case to support future upgrade projects, or to obtain an audit in future.
Victorian Energy Compare
Victorian Energy Compare is a tool to compare your energy plans and renewable energy feed-in tariffs amongst the different Victorian energy retailers.
Victorian Energy Saver
Victorian Energy Saver provides advice, information and a listing of grants and support programs to help businesses reduce energy use.
Victorian Energy Upgrades
Victorian Energy Upgrades provides businesses with access to discounted energy and water-efficient products and services through accredited service providers.
Rebates and assistance
See the rebates and assistance page for a range of programs from the Australian Government and state and territory governments. Use it to find rebates, concessions, funding, advice and support.
