Dandenong timber processing business, Premier Wood Machining Services, has recently been awarded over $10,000 grant to help reduce its energy usage under the $6.1 million Victorian Government’s Boosting Business Productivity Program.

The program, delivered by Sustainability Victoria, supports businesses with three different efficiency grants, a sustainable finance service, training events, and information resources.

Concerned about their energy costs, Premier Wood Machining Services wanted to reduce their energy use before renegotiating supply contracts later this year. With future plans for business expansion, the Dandenong South business recognised that exploring renewable energy options is important moving forward as environmental credentials have significant value to customers in the timber industry.

Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams, said the business has identified potential savings of up to $11,700 a year through an energy assessment.

Premier Wood Machining Services is now working with an experienced energy consultant to further identify potential energy efficiency improvements, review pricing tariffs, and suitable renewable energy options.

Since the program was launched by the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio, the Energy Assessment Grants have been awarded to more than 60 businesses across Victoria to co-fund energy efficiency assessments.

The grants are open to businesses spending more than $20,000 a year on energy.

For more information on the program, please contact Sustainability Victoria’s Sustainable Business advisors on 1300 363 744 or email grants.enquiries@sustainability.vic.gov.au.