Queensland businesses set to become ‘greener’

Queensland small and medium businesses have further reason to become more ‘green’ following the introduction of a $50 million Queensland government policy.

The Smart Energy Savings Fund (SESF) provides concessional loans or grants to help businesses implement energy-efficient technologies in buildings, appliances and industrial processes.

CEO of Integra Asset Management Paul McCartney said the fund would be valuable for business owners that have delayed implementing energy-saving initiatives due to the costs involved.

“Late last year, Integra and QUT’s Institute of Sustainable Resources undertook a study which revealed that cost was a deterrent for many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) considering introducing green technologies,” McCartney said.

“The study identified that most business owners believed that making the transition to sustainability should be a priority, but cost was a critical factor.”

McCartney said he would encourage Queensland business owners to make the most of the financial support offered.

“By implementing energy-saving initiatives, businesses can lower their power costs and water consumption, which will deliver significant bottom line savings,” McCartney said.

“At the same time, they will be protecting our precious environment by reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

“Sustainability in buildings will become standard within the next decade, so business owners will be left behind if they do not start thinking green.”