Newcastle Small Business Sustainability Initiative 

The Newcastle Small Business Sustainability Initiative offers eligible local businesses NSW Government funded rebates of up to $5,000 (inc. GST) for the purchase of energy efficient equipment or upgrades to existing equipment.

By joining, your business will receive a subsidised energy assessment and tailored action plan, access to free workshops and a star-rating plaque to communicate your achievements to your staff and customers.

You can take part if your business spends up to about $20,000 (inc. GST) on electricity a year or employs up to approximately 10 staff members.

The Initiative is offered by Newcastle City Council, in collaboration with the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW.

To register, visit www.climatecam.com/for_business, see the latest newsletter here…. (Connect to newsletter) or phone Council on 4974 2564.

Hunter Business Water Savings Program

Hunter Water has announced a new water efficiency program aimed at improving water efficiency in the medium to large business sector.

The Hunter Business Water Savers Program is a partnership with the Hunter Business Chamber and aims to assist members improve water efficiency in their business. The program will involve:

• A maximum of 30 members from the Hunter Business Chamber.
• A subsidised water audit to identify potential water savings in kitchens and amenities.
• Plumbing modifications and installation of water efficiency products expected to achieve a year pay back or better in savings.
• Metering to measure savings.

Recruitment for the program is underway with audits expected to commence in early 2010. Progress in the program will be promoted on Hunter Water’s website, in Hunter Water’s customer newsletters and to the local media.

For information: Hunter Business Chamber www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au or Martin Conner Water Efficiency Program Coordinator 4979 9422 martin.conner@hunterwater.com.au.