Small businesses to benefit from national energy check program

SPEAKING at the recent launch of the Business Energy Advice Program, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Kate Carnell commended the introduction of free advice to help small businesses with 20 or less employees choose the best-priced energy options to suit their needs.

“These small businesses make up more than 97 percent of businesses in Australia and when it comes to energy consumption, they really feel the pain,” Ms Carnell said.

“Small businesses pay higher rates than households and use more energy, particularly manufacturers and the hospitality industry.

“They are less confident in finding the right information because what is out there is so complex, and they really don’t have the time and resources to investigate all alternatives.

“We know small business owners are experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety about energy bills, with 68% reporting these bills affect their cash flow," Ms Carnell said.

“A recent SME survey showed 70 percent would reduce investment in capital expenditure due to higher energy prices.

“The new Business Energy Advice Program offers an energy check benchmarking tool and a personalised energy advice service.

“Instead of trying to absorb energy price rises, which 85 percent of small businesses have said they would struggle to do, they will be able to shop around for a better deal.

“I encourage all small businesses to get onto the Business Energy Advice website to check their energy spend and find out how they can save money.”

www.asbfeo.gov.au

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