A copper electrical cable manufacturer in Melbourne’s South East will boost its energy efficiency, increase production capacity and retain jobs, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams, today visited Tycab Australia Pty Ltd to announce that the company will undertake a $5.48 million investment project so it can better manage its rising energy costs.

As part of the project, the company will purchase an advanced design casting machine, an automatic spooling line and robotic palletiser, and build a new copper rod production facility with solar PV on the roof.

The company will be able to retain its 72-strong workforce and create four new jobs through its investment – a boost for Melbourne’s South East.

Tycab Australia produces copper rod and cable products for a range of industries including mining, transport, food processing, residential housing and commercial property. It is one of Australia’s only vertically integrated copper smelting manufacturers.

The Victorian Government committed $90 million in additional funding through the 2017-18 Victorian Budget to attract new businesses to Victoria and help existing businesses expand. This funding is also available to manufacturers to help manage the impacts of energy market volatility.

There are multiple existing programs that can help businesses manage and reduce their energy costs by increasing their energy efficiency, supporting renewable energy generation and storage, and updating equipment and purchasing new equipment.