Photo: One Sneaky Cheetah Campbelltown
Amid overwhelming interest and application numbers, the South Australian Government has announced the removal of the funding cap on the Energy Efficiency Grants for small businesses, part of the Economic Recovery Fund (ERF). Originally set with a limit of $20 million for Round 2, demand has stretched beyond anticipated levels with applications valued at over $31 million.
Approximately 1,400 small businesses and not-for-profit organisations applied for the grants. This response underlines a strong desire among local enterprises to invest in energy-efficient technologies and upgrades. In response to this significant interest, the cap has been lifted to accommodate all eligible applications.
The grants, ranging from $2,500 up to $50,000, require businesses to match the funding. This initiative supports investments, such as the installation of solar panels and batteries, the upgrading of appliances to more efficient models, or improving building energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems.
To date, the government has already approved projects worth more than $10 million. Over 450 applicants, including notable ones like the One Sneaky Cheetah pizza chain, have benefitted. With a $50,000 grant, One Sneaky Cheetah is working on a $147,000 project that will potentially reduce their yearly energy costs by about $50,000 through the implementation of solar panels and battery storage at two store locations.
Most applications have originated from the Accommodation and Food Services, Retail Trade, and Manufacturing sectors. Key investments by these businesses are focused on incorporating solar solutions, upgrading to LED lighting, and replacing outdated energy-intensive appliances.
Stephen Mullighan, Treasurer, reinforced the state’s commitment to supporting local enterprises during challenging economic conditions. “The State Government is determined to help more small businesses reduce their power costs, by lifting the cap on the Energy Efficiency Grants scheme,” he commented,.
Minister for Small and Family Business, Andrea Michaels, added that the initiative aims to alleviate cost pressures for smaller businesses. “We are supporting more small businesses to combat cost of living pressures,” Michaels stated. Following the initial allocation of $20 million, the government will now extend additional financial support, ensuring that all eligible businesses can benefit from the grant. Michaels highlighted the significant interest from businesses in adopting energy-efficient solutions as a strategic move to manage operational costs effectively.
Joe Anderson, Director of One Sneaky Cheetah, shared his company’s direct experience with the grant. “The Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant has enabled our business to purchase equipment to generate and store enough electricity to be close to energy neutral,” Anderson explained.
“Not only is this great for the environment, it will save us tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the equipment.
“Without the Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant, we would not have been able to afford to install the solar panels and batteries at both venues. The remaining cost of the equipment, after the grant funds, will be paid off in 3 years and we will then see significant savings and we will own the equipment outright.
“Being able to afford to have both solar panels and batteries was important for our business because we open at night and use the electricity that has been stored during the day.”
Applications for Round 2 of the ERF fund closed on November 29.
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