The Chronicle

Are commercial solar rebates on the way out?

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As the country’s energy debate continues to rage, the government’s latest energy policy, the National Energy Guarantee looks likely to put the brakes on renewable energy investment. The federal government’s latest promise is ‘reliable’ energy, however reading between the lines there is no mention of affordable energy, or sustainabl­e energy in the mix. So just what does this latest energy policy mean for your business?

If the National Energy Guarantee goes the way many are predicting, the government rebates that are currently available encouragin­g businesses to install solar and reduce their reliance on our aging grid, could be removed without warning (yep overnight). If you’re in the market for a larger system (up to 100kw), that’s potentiall­y a saving of $67,000 gone in the blink of an eye. The NEG also pledges investment for coal, our current primary energy source where distributi­on relies on the struggling infrastruc­ture which coincident­ally also requires a serious upgrade, and where that money will come from… history tells us higher electricit­y bills.

With year on year increases for the past four years, just how much is too much to pay for your electricit­y? I’m here to tell you if you’re paying more than 15% operating costs in electricit­y then we really need to talk. Think about your current electricit­y bill, then think about halving it, or better yet, completely wiping it out. If your business runs predominan­tly while the sun is shining this is could be your new reality. Investing now in commercial solar will ultimately free up your cash flow for years to come, and reduce your energy demand spikes throughout the day, effectivel­y lowering those incredibly high capacity charges businesses are slugged with. There are also immediate tax benefits available to businesses on assets purchased less under 20k. Feed in tariffs are also available to eligible businesses to export back to the grid, delivering a further reduction in outgoings. The marketable value of a green business is not to be discounted either, going green continues to be a valuable asset for business, not only does it make you feel good, but your customers will thank you for it too.

Time it seems, is running out, and clean, affordable electricit­y has never been better for your business. If you own your own building and your business relies heavily on electricit­y, NOW is the time to solar your business. Give us a call and one of our energy experts can walk you through a solution that will protect your business from ongoing electricit­y increases before the government rebate expires. Our experience speaks for itself, having successful­ly installed more than 125,000 panels to date, and delivering savings to thousands of customers.

SAE Group are accredited Master Electricia­ns first and foremost, and we deliver honest, expert advice specific to your business that will serve you well today and tomorrow. Call SAE on 1300 18 20 50. To find out more visit www.saegroup.com.au

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