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Category: Electricity Energy and Utilities / Industry / States and Territories / Federal - State Issues / Government and Politics

SA businesses offered helping hand to lower electricity bills

Tuesday, 13 Dec 2016 07:53:19

Some of the funding could be used to pay for solar equipment installation. (ABC News: Billy Cooper)

The South Australian Government's mid-year budget review will contain $31 million over two years to help large businesses manage their electricity bills, the Treasurer says.

The Energy Productivity Program will be available to South Australian businesses that use more than 160 megawatts of electricity each year.

Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis said the Government would cover 75 per cent of the cost of energy audits for up to 500 businesses through the program.

Up to 110 of those businesses will be able to access grants of up to $75,000 to put in place audit recommendations if they agree to match the funding.

Funded projects could include the installation of solar systems with battery storage units, installation of power correction equipment, which can reduce power usage, and the replacement of equipment such as pumps, compressors and refrigeration with more energy-efficient technology.

"South Australia operates in a National Electricity Market and reform is required at a national level to bring the market into the 21st century and create a fairer system for all states," Mr Koutsantonis said.

"But we can do things at a state level to relieve costs on businesses and families and this initiative is the latest in a suite of State Government measures designed to reduce energy costs for South Australian consumers."

The Government offered a similar program in 2011.

A $24 million grant program has also been announced to help gas companies extract more gas and supply it to local electricity generators first to ensure the affordability of supply.

Premier Jay Weatherill has also called for a state-based emissions intensity scheme (EIS).

The Government said an EIS would "incentivise more secure, base-load, gas-fired power into the market, and provide for a smooth, low-cost transition to a cleaner energy future as more coal power exits the national market".

AustraliaPlus


 

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