MEFL will hold a Local Business Breakfast in Moreland to provide a forum for information on the implications of the carbon price, and how businesses can cut energy costs. MEFL’s CEO, Paul Murfitt invites business representatives to register their interest in attending the breakfast by email to MEFL Office Manager Ebony Hunt.
Mr Murfitt said “We welcome the Federal Government’s carbon price announcement as an important step to reduce Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.” “The boost in support for energy efficiency in households and businesses, through the expanded Low Carbon Communities program, will help to reduce energy bills even with the introduction of a carbon price.
“Energy efficiency remains the cheapest and most effective way to build community resilience to climate change, and achieve long term reductions in energy costs and emissions.
“The support for small businesses through tax deductions for energy efficient equipment is also a step forward, and the Government’s decision to further investigate a national energy savings scheme could provide further incentive for households and businesses to act.
“Our experience shows that with a little help, the community can save energy at little or no cost, and some of the greatest opportunities are in small and medium-size businesses.
“Results from our latest energy saving research with bottle shop businesses found savings of up to $200 per fridge each year, through the installation of simple, low-cost energy saving devices. This program is now available to other businesses in Moreland and we invite business owners to give us a call to get involved.
“While low income households will be well compensated for the carbon price, other factors will continue to drive electricity prices up, so household energy saving programs will continue to be important.
“The Government’s new Low Income Energy Efficiency Program and Household Energy and Financial Sustainability Scheme will allow organisations like MEFL to continue helping vulnerable households to save energy.
“We have been working with the Brotherhood of St Laurence to ensure low income homes are warmer in winter, and cooler in summer, while reducing energy bills at the same time.” Households and businesses in Moreland are encouraged to visit the Moreland Energy Foundation’s website (www.mefl.com.au) and contact the Foundation about how to access its free energy saving programs.
