DB from RS Bendigo Bank and Carbon Down help businesses save energy as prices rise

With energy prices set to rise, Victorian businesses are being encouraged to reduce their energy consumption and protect their business against price impacts through an energy saving initiative from Bendigo Bank and Carbon Down.

Bendigo Bank’s Head of Environment and Sustainability, Trudy Ellery, said electricity use accounted for 71 per cent of the average business’ carbon footprint but by making a few simple changes every business could reduce its energy consumption and save money.

“Electrical items left on standby account for more than six per cent of Australia’s commercial electricity usage, costing the business community more than $588 million each year,” Ms Ellery said.

“Many Australians businesses are inclined to leave their appliances on standby without realising the significant impact that standby power has on their energy consumption and power bills.

“But by changing everyday habits at work, there’s plenty of scope for businesses to cut down on power, save money and reduce their carbon footprint.”

Bendigo Bank is giving Victorian businesses the opportunity to win $10,000 through its Generation GreenTM Energy Saver Initiative.

To enter simply visit the Generation Green™ website and tell us what your organisation has done or could do to save energy and reduce its environmental impact.

The first 5,000 entrants will receive an energy saving power board with a retail value of $49.95.

“Business owners can save money while out of the office, simply by connecting their electrical equipment to an energy saving power board which conveniently switches off appliances at once,” Ms Ellery said.

The most innovative responses will receive the following prizes;

First prize: $10,000 to spend on improving your business’ energy efficiency
Second prize: Bendigo Bank Financial Planning Advice and Services valued at $5,000
Third prize: A Business Energy Assessment from VECCI Sustainability Services valued at $1,000
“At Bendigo Bank we’re working to address environmental issues by providing customers and communities with practical solutions that can create a more sustainable future.”
To enter, visit the Generation Green™ website www.bendigobank.com.au/generationgreen/
Entries close at Midnight on Tuesday 31 May 2011.
About Carbon Down
Carbon Down is a climate change initiative between VECCI and the Victorian Government. Its mission is to empower the Victorian Business community to work together and reduce Victoria’s carbon emissions. It partners with like-minded companies and organisations, offering knowledge, funding and support to projects that help small and medium-sized businesses find new ways of tackling climate change. Carbon Down is dedicated to reducing Victoria's business carbon footprint through innovative, practical solutions.
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