Business energy advice free
Noosa businesses are being offered practical, free support to tackle rising energy costs, as a major free community event shines a spotlight on ways to cut energy costs and boost the bottom line.
With electricity, fuel and LPG prices continuing to climb, many business owners are asking the same question: where are the sav-ings, and how do you find them?
Through Zero Emissions Noosa, and proudly supported by Noosa Council, the free independent Business Energy Advisor program is helping small and medium-sized businesses across the shire identify practical opportunities to reduce costs.
ZEN Business Energy advisor Josh Stevens says the service is designed for time-poor business operators who know savings are possible but aren't sure where to start.
"For business owners dealing with fast-in-creasing bills and constant change, it makes a massive difference to have someone provide clarity on opportunities, expected returns and next steps," he said.
"My role is to help businesses use less ener-gy, use it smarter, and consider new technologies like solar and battery systems when the numbers stack up."
The advice is free, independent and completely vendor-neutral, meaning there are no commissions or product sales involved.
Instead, the focus is on tailored guidance— whether that's a quick efficiency review, assessing the business case for upgrades, or navigating tariffs, rebates and return on in-vestment.
"I'll typically look at trading hours, major appliances, tariffs and energy use," Josh said.
"From there, we identify high-reward, low-ef-fort savings first."
For many businesses, the results can be im-mediate. Some have reduced costs simply by reviewing their energy plans or adjusting how and when equipment is used. Others have taken longer-term steps, such as installing solar and battery systems, to lock in savings and improve resilience.
Local case studies highlight what's possi-ble. A Kin Kin accommodation provider has reduced energy costs and improved reliability through a combination of solar and battery storage, while a Noosaville health business installed solar with a payback period of under four years-setting itself up for decades of low-cost electricity. A local manufacturer has already avoided costly downtime thanks to backup energy systems that kept operations running during a blackout.
Beyond direct savings, Josh says there are broader benefits. "Businesses often see im-
proved resilience, stronger branding, and even increased customer appeal," he said. "It can also open the door to green finance opportunities”
These themes will also feature at ZEN's upcoming free Noosa EV & Electrify Everything Expo, 21 June on Sunrise Beach Road at Noosa Junction, where more than 60 exhibitors and community organisations will come together to share practical energy solutions for homes and businesses as well as e-transport options.
Attendees can explore simple ways to improve energy efficiency at home including learning about the latest solar, battery and heating/cooling options and ask questions of ZEN's Home and Business Energy Champions.
The event will also include live induction cooking demonstrations from well-known Noosa chefs Luc and Pascal Turschwell, highlighting the efficiency and performance modern electric appliances, as well as over 30 EV's and a wide range of other electric transport options.
For Josh, the goal is simple: make energy advice accessible and actionable.
"We know there are savings out there. The challenge is time, and knowing who to trust," he said. "This is about giving business owners confidence to make informed decisions that genuinely improve their bottom line."
With energy markets continuing to shift, local businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of the free service. A typical advisory session takes less than an hour and requires little more than a recent power bill.
Noosa Shire businesses can book a free consultation with Josh via email at josh.stevens@zeroemissionsnoosa.com.
Find out more about the Noosa EV & Electrify Everything Expo at www.noosaevexpo.com.au
