19/01/2016
A WELL-known environmental campaigner and TV host has joined a push to improve energy efficiency in Far North Queensland.
Jon Dee launched the National Electrical and Communications Association’s “Lean and Green” initiative yesterday at the Cairns Botanic Gardens.
The new business support program combines energy audits, eco-smart electricians and low-interest finance to help business owners identify where they can save on electricity bills and how to go about turning ideas into action.
Mr Dee, who co-founded Planet Ark and National Tree Day, is a sustainability consultant and was commissioned by the Federal Government to write Energy Cut, a guide to reducing energy bills for businesses.
“Energy efficiency is a guaranteed way to improve the profitability, resilience and value of your business,” he said.
“The Lean and Green initiative is a great opportunity for Cairns business owners.”
NECA northern manager Robert Browning is hoping to recruit 100 local businesses for the pilot program.
“Wasted energy is lost profit and we’re talking substantial savings they can make on energy bills,” Mr Browning said.
“You can’t improve what you don’t measure, so the first thing is to conduct an energy audit and find out what your usage is.
“Once those measures are in place, then they have the option of getting an eco-smart electrician in, for example, to replace LED lighting.
“Low-interest finance is available to small and large businesses so it doesn’t upset their cash flow.”
