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Accessing government energy grants in Victoria (VIC) and New South Wales (NSW) can help reduce energy costs and improve energy efficiency in your home or business. 

A range of government grant programs are available to assist businesses with funding energy efficiency projects. Eligibility requirements can differ significantly across programs and jurisdictions, so it is necessary to review funding guidelines. 

Whatever option you choose, you should conduct an energy audit before considering finance options. So, how do you access government energy grants in VIC and NSW? Let’s get into the details.  

2024-25 Energy Bill Relief Fund for Households and Small Businesses

What is the 2024-25 Energy Bill Relief Fund?

The Commonwealth Government, in collaboration with states and territories, is providing up to $3.5 billion in electricity bill relief for eligible households and small businesses.  

This substantial financial aid is designed to alleviate the financial pressures related to energy costs, providing relief and security. 

Victorian families will receive up to $300, while eligible small companies may receive up to $325 to assist them pay their electricity costs. Households will accept payments in quarterly instalments ($75 per quarter), while small enterprises will get a single payment ($325). 

Support for Victorian Households

Victorian households can receive up to $300 in electricity bill rebates, distributed in four quarterly payments of $75. 

To qualify for this rebate, households must: 

  • Have an active electricity account with an energy retailer for their primary residence. 
  • Use electricity solely for domestic purposes, as commercial properties are not eligible. 

The first $75 payment was issued in August 2024, with subsequent credits scheduled for: 

  • October 1, 2024 
  • January 13, 2025 
  • April 1, 2025 

Most households will automatically receive the rebate through their electricity provider, with no need for further action. This streamlined process is designed to make it as easy for households to access the financial relief they need. 

Households in Embedded Networks

Residents in embedded networks, such as caravan parks, retirement villages, and apartment buildings, can apply for the rebate via Victorian Energy Compare. These customers will receive a one-time payment of $300.  

Support for Victorian Small Businesses Eligible small businesses in Victoria will receive a one-time rebate of $325 on their electricity bill. This support is a testament to the value that small businesses bring to the community and recognition of their contribution to the economy. 

Eligible small businesses in Victoria will receive a one-time rebate of $325 on their electricity bill. 

To qualify, businesses must: 

  • Have an active ABN registered on the Australian Business Register. 
  • Be on a separately metered business tariff. 
  • Have an annual electricity consumption below 40 MWh. 

The rebates began in August 2024, and most businesses will receive the credit automatically through their electricity provider. 

Small Businesses in Embedded Networks

Businesses in embedded networks, such as those within shopping centres or apartment buildings, can apply for the one-time rebate through Victorian Energy Compare.   

Australian Government Grants and Financial Assistance| Grants and Funding

renewable energy

Find funding, loans, and support programs for your business across all levels of government at business.gov.au. 

Before applying, you can assess your readiness and learn about the grant application process to improve your chances of securing funding. For energy-related financial assistance, contact Cyanergy. 

Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)

The CEFC is a government-backed organisation designed to boost investment in the clean energy sector. It provides financing solutions to help businesses and consumers transition to energy-efficient technologies.   

CEFC programs support small businesses, manufacturers, agricultural enterprises, and commercial properties in adopting clean energy solutions. Funding is also available through co-financing partnerships with other organisations.   

CSIRO Kick-Start

CSIRO Kick-Start supports innovative Australian start-ups and small businesses in their research and development (R&D) efforts. The program offers:   

  • Assistance in defining research objectives   
  • Access to expert CSIRO researchers   
  • Matched funding to expand or reduce the cost of R&D services   

Tax Incentives for Businesses

Research and Development Tax Incentive (R&DTI)

The R&DTI offers tax offsets to encourage Australian companies to invest in research and development activities.   

Instant Asset Write-Off

The instant asset write-off allows small businesses to claim tax deductions upfront instead of depreciating assets over time.   

From July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, small businesses with an annual turnover of less than $10 million could immediately deduct eligible assets costing under $20,000. This threshold is applied per asset, allowing multiple assets to be written off instantly.   

On May 14, 2024, as part of the 2024–25 Budget, the government proposed extending the $20,000 instant asset write-off for another 12 months until June 30, 2025. However, this measure is still awaiting parliamentary approval.   

Using Tax Incentives to Enhance Energy Efficiency

The Energy Efficiency Council has published a guide on leveraging tax incentives to improve energy efficiency.   

The guide explains how businesses can benefit from energy upgrades and outlines tax incentives that make these investments more cost-effective. It also includes real-world examples of how companies can apply these incentives.   

State and Territory Government Grants and Support for Businesses

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

The Sustainable Business Program offers rebates to small and medium businesses in the ACT for energy-saving upgrades, such as better heating, cooling, lighting, and refrigeration.   

  • Businesses can claim up to $10,000 (including GST).   
  • Rebates are only available for new upgrades (not ones that have already started).   
  • Eligibility rules apply.   

New South Wales (NSW)

The NSW Government provides various programs, grants, and schemes to help businesses lower their energy use.   

A popular option is Building Upgrade Finance, which allows businesses to get private funding for energy upgrades in non-strata commercial buildings. Repayments are made through the local council.   

Queensland

The Queensland Government offers several programs to help businesses save energy:   

Business Energy Savers Program: This program provides free energy audits for agricultural and large businesses and funding for energy efficiency upgrades.    

South Australia

The South Australian Government offers grants and programs to help businesses improve their energy efficiency and sustainability.   

Victoria

Sustainability Victoria provides businesses with tools and expert advice to reduce costs and improve efficiency by saving energy and materials.   

Their Energy Upgrades Tool helps businesses find funding options and calculate potential savings.   

energy bills

Tasmania

The Tasmanian Government has multiple grants and programs to help businesses cut energy costs and invest in sustainability.   

Business Energy Efficiency Scheme helps businesses that use over 150 MWh of electricity annually by supporting financing costs for energy-saving projects.   

Energy Saver Loan Scheme offers interest-free loans for purchasing and installing energy-efficient products. These loans have no setup or account-keeping fees, but late payment fees may apply.   

Mandatory Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Schemes 

Some businesses, mainly energy retailers, must meet specific energy efficiency or renewable energy targets under mandatory obligation schemes. These programs often allow companies to buy and trade certificates to meet their targets.   

The schemes encourage businesses to invest in clean energy by offering financial benefits and long-term savings from reduced energy use and lower emissions.   

National Scheme

Businesses that generate renewable energy on-site may qualify for Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) under the Large-Scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET) Scheme.   

  • LGCs can be sold or traded to energy retailers.   
  • To be eligible, companies must generate electricity from approved renewable sources and feed it into the grid.   

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

The Energy Efficiency Improvement Scheme (EEIS) helps maintain progress on energy-saving goals, ensuring affordable electricity and gas savings. It also aligns the ACT’s energy regulations with those of other states.   

New South Wales (NSW)

The Energy Saving Scheme (ESS) provides financial rewards for businesses that reduce electricity use or improve energy efficiency.   

Energy retailers must obtain Energy Savings Certificates based on the amount of carbon dioxide emissions reduced.   

South Australia (SA)

The Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) helps homes and businesses lower energy costs while improving the overall efficiency of their power systems.   

Victoria (VIC)

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Registry is an online system.  

  • VEU manages Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for businesses.   
  • It approves new products for energy efficiency programs.   
  • It tracks the ownership and status of certificates.   

Rebates and Assistance

The energy.gov.au rebates sorter helps businesses find government rebates, grants, loans, and support programs for energy projects.    

Other Energy Financing Options

energy consumption

Environmental Upgrade Finance (EUF) / Building Upgrade Finance (BUF)

  • External financiers cover the cost of energy-efficient building upgrades.   
  • Businesses repay the loan through a council levy, which can be passed on to tenants.   
  • If the property is sold, the payments remain tied to the building.   

This finance model is available in NSW, South Australia, and Victoria. Details are on the Building Upgrade Finance website.   

Energy Performance Contracts (EPCs)

  • Energy service companies assess a building’s energy-saving potential, finance the upgrades, and guarantee lower energy bills.   
  • The cost of upgrades is repaid through the energy savings.   
  • This model benefits tenants who save on energy bills without the building owner paying upfront costs.   

Loan Financing

Businesses can get loans with repayment plans linked to the energy savings from the project.  

Leasing

Companies can lease energy-efficient equipment to avoid high upfront costs and manage upgrades within their operating budget.   

On-Bill Financing

The energy provider covers the cost of new energy-efficient equipment. Once payments are complete, businesses repay through monthly power bills and ownership transfers. Repayments are often equal to or lower than the energy cost savings achieved.   

Contact Cyanergy for more details and talk to an expert  

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The post How to Access Government Energy Grants in VIC & NSW appeared first on Cyanergy.

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Explore Commercial Heat Pump Warranties: What Cyanergy Offers? 

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Heat pumps are an excellent investment for any Australian Business, whether you run restaurants, hotels, nursing homes, laundries, or manufacturing facilities.

They save money, reduce emissions, and, most importantly, modernise operations by prioritising energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

But when you’re spending your hard-earned dollars on a commercial heat pump, you are not only purchasing a product, you’re also investing in long-term performance. And one factor that separates smart purchases from regrets is warranty protection.

Besides satisfactory performance, a solid warranty on your heat pump can offer you peace of mind and protect you from unexpected repair costs.

Still, with so many options in the market, how can you understand which companies actually back up their promises with real protection?

Let’s put your concerns to rest! In this blog, we’ll unveil what commercial heat pump warranties usually cover, what to watch out for, and exactly how Cyanergy’s warranty stacks up, doing things differently.

Understanding Warranties for Heat Pumps: Why It Matters?

So, what is a hot water heat pump system warranty?

A commercial hot water heat pump warranty is a
manufacturer’s or supplier’s promise that the product will perform as expected for a specified period.
Warranties typically cover repairs or replacements if something goes wrong due to faulty materials.

Types of Heat Pump Warranties: What’s Typically Covered?

When purchasing a heat pump, understanding the different types of warranties is crucial to protecting your investment
and minimising repair costs. In Australia, warranties may include manufacturer coverage, labour warranties, and
even full system replacement.

So, here’s a breakdown of the most common types of heat pump warranties available throughout
Australia:

1. Manufacturer’s Warranty

This is the most common type of warranty included with most of the new heat pumps installed in Australian commercial
properties.

Warranty Coverage:

  • Major components are covered under this warranty, including the compressor, condenser, air handler, fan,
    heat exchanger, electronic controls, and, sometimes, refrigerant components such as the evaporator.
  • Some units also include a separate warranty for the refrigeration system.

Warranty Duration:

The manufacturer’s warranty is typically 5 to 10 years, but can be extended to 12 years for premium models.

However, remember that to qualify for warranty, installation must be performed by a certified professional, such as
Cyanergy. Also, some manufacturers offer extended parts warranties
if the unit is registered shortly after installation.

2. Labour Warranty

This covers the labour costs for diagnosing, repairing, or replacing defective parts. In most cases, manufacturer
warranties cover parts, but not always labour.

Since labour can be costly, especially for complex systems, it’s worth checking for better financial protection.

Covers:

  • This provides the technician’s labour and service fees.

Duration:

The warranty lasts from 1 to 3 years from the installation date. This entirely depends on your service provider and
the size of the installations.

3. Installation Warranty

An installation warranty is usually offered by the HVAC company that installs
your heat pump system
with professional help.

Covers:

  • Any issues caused by improper installation.
  • Workmanship defects.

Duration:

This is applicable for typically 1 to 2 years, depending on the contractor. Also, always try to get this warranty in
writing, as some contractors may only offer a verbal assurance, which may not hold up if issues arise.

4. Extended Warranty

Some manufacturers offer extended coverage for their models at an additional cost. These provide more extended
coverage periods and broader protection for parts and repairs beyond the standard warranty limits, giving you
added peace of mind.

Covers:

  • It can include both parts and labour.
  • Some manufacturers even offer full system coverage for a long time.

Duration:

Ensure that this extended warranty coverage lasts 10 to 12 years. However, regular servicing may be required to keep
it valid.

Also, check for exclusions, maintenance requirements, and whether the manufacturer or a third party backs it.

5. Unit Replacement Warranty

Offered by some manufacturers as part of their premium product warranties.

Covers:

  • It provides a complete system replacement if a major failure occurs within the warranty period.

Duration:

Replacement warranty lasts for 1 to 5 years, depending on your chosen heat pump brand and model number.

6. Tank Warranty

In Australia, if your heat pump includes a hot water storage tank, this may have a separate warranty.

Covers:

  • This warranty covers any leaks, corrosion, or manufacturing defects in the tank.

Duration:

Even though the warranty claims often last 5 to 10 years, it’s better to check that specifically with the tank
manufacturer.

Why Warranties Matter for Businesses in Australia?

Warranties on heat pumps can be beneficial for businesses. Thinking why?

With warranty coverage, minimum risk of expensive equipment breakdowns, and protection against unexpected repair costs, businesses can operate with greater confidence.

They minimise downtime and maintenance disruptions for your system, keeping your system running for a long time.

Additionally, having a valid warranty may be a requirement for participation in certain government energy programs, such as the Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) scheme.

Cyanergy’s Warranty Offer: What You Get, What Sets Us Apart!

Hot water heat pumps, like the popular Smart Lifestyle
Australia (SLA) model
, offer significant advantages for your business. For example:

  • They use up to 75% less energy than traditional electric systems.
  • Offer cost savings that are 3.5 times cheaper to run and ideal for high-usage commercial settings like
    office buildings and hospitals.
  • Traditional heating systems use burning fossil fuels, whereas installing heat pumps can reduce your
    dependency on fossil fuels.
  • Heat pumps reduce gas emissions, lowering your carbon
    footprint
    .
  • Perform longer with less regular maintenance over time.

Also, SLA units are available in 200 L and 300 L capacities, making them a versatile choice across
industries. Moreover, our heat pump is 4X more energy efficient than electric systems.

Now, let’s see what Cyanergy’s warranty offers.

Here’s how Cyanergy Australia stacks up. When you buy a commercial hot water heat pump through Cyanergy

Warranty Component Cyanergy Offers
Compressor 5-year warranty support
Cylinder or Tank  7-year warranty support
Whole Unit 5-year warranty support for the whole system

Some Scenarios That Prove Warranties Pay Off

Here we’ve added a few example scenarios so you can see how warranties play out in “real life” with Cyanergy.

Case 1: Compressor failure in year 3

Imagine enjoying years of energy savings, then suddenly, your compressor fails in year three. In such cases with many companies, you’d be stuck paying for costly parts.

But with Cyanergy, your compressor is covered for up to 5 years, offering peace of mind at the same time, ensuring savings. Isn’t it a win-win?

Case 2: Tank develops a leak in year 6

Most standard warranties on hot water system tanks expire around the 5-year mark, leaving you unprotected just when things start to wear down.

However, Cyanergy’s 7-year cylinder warranty, a leaking tank in year six, isn’t a problem. This saves thousands of dollars, and customers do not need to struggle for emergency replacements.

Case 3: Control board fails in year 2

Electronics are unpredictable, and control boards are no exception. They’re essential for system operation, so if one fails, your system could shut down completely.

Many manufacturers offer limited warranties on these parts, often just 1 year. But Cyanergy’s 5-year whole-unit warranty means you’re covered for unexpected component failures like this for a long time.

Case 4: Environmental or any external damage

These are often excluded from many warranties everywhere. You’ll need to check if the damage falls under “defective component” or external factors.

Make sure your C&I properties have ground fault protection, surge protection, and water drainage that are up to spec.

Make the Most of Your Heat Pump Warranty: 5 Expert Tips!

If you’re living in Australia, then getting a heat pump installed is undoubtedly a smart move, but if you’re not careful, you could miss out on the full benefits of your warranty.

Don’t let simple oversights cost you down the track! 

So, here are the five expert tips that help you make the most of your system:

  1. Keep all paperwork, including receipts, installation date, installer name & certificates.
  2. Register the product if required.
  3. Follow installation specs to know about the provided services like correct plumbing, proper electrical setup, clearance & environmental standard compliance.
  4. Maintain regularly clean filters, flush the tank if needed, check valves and sensors, and follow manual guidelines.
  5. Document everything if something seems wrong, as proper documentation helps in claiming a warranty.

Cyanergy’s Service Response and Installer Quality

At Cyanergy, we offer exceptional customer service. For any warranty-related concerns, our team responds within 24 hours to ensure quick and efficient resolution.

As a CEC-approved installer in Australia, we have successfully completed hundreds of commercial solar projects across Victoria (VIC) and New South Wales (NSW). You can count on our expertise and commitment to quality from installation through to after-sales support.

Takeaway Thoughts

In the end, you deserve more than just a shiny product in a box. You deserve lasting value and genuine support with a commitment to reliable hardware, strong service, and support designed for commercial users.

So, if you’re considering a heat pump upgrade or part of a business that depends on reliable hot water, let us walk you through exactly what coverage you’ll get and ensure you get the best match for your needs.

For more information, call us today and talk with our experts without any further delay!

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Explore Commercial Heat Pump Warranties: What Cyanergy Offers?  appeared first on Cyanergy.

Explore Commercial Heat Pump Warranties: What Cyanergy Offers? 

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Renewable Energy

Handing the Keys to the Kingdom over to the Chinese

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When I argue for environmental responsibility and the decarbonization of the grid, I often say:

I know there are people who believe, perhaps because this is what they’re told by Donald Trump, that climate change is a hoax. But are there people who don’t believe in cancer? In the importance of our country’s investing in the industry that is destined the dominate the 21st Century?

Trump will be gone soon.  Maybe you and I will be gone (in a different sense) before the effects of this administration’s folly in the EV and cleantech industry are fully felt.

But it’s inevitable, unless we turn this around, and soon.

Handing the Keys to the Kingdom over to the Chinese

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Small, Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs)

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In preparation for my first book, “Renewable Energy – Facts and Fantasies,” I interviewed Ray Lane, then managing partner of Kleiner Perkins, one of the world’s great venture capital firms, who told me about his stance with his prospects, “You build the first one. I’ll invest in the next 20. Then we’ll take the thing public and use that cash to build the next 5000.”

I’m 99+% sure that the “first one” of these will never be built, i,e., installing these VAWTs at the base of functioning wind farms. The concept is asinine, as it defies the laws of fluid dynamics.

.

Small, Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs)

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