Our work › Current projects
Business Energy Support
Helping local businesses cut energy costs through a renewables buying group, training and checklists
For:
Local businesses
from small shops to large energy users
Programs:
3
buying group, webinars, checklists
Partner:
1Circle
specialist energy advisor
Status:
In progress
The challenge
Rising energy costs are putting pressure on businesses across South East Melbourne. Large energy users often lack the buying power to secure good renewable contracts on their own, and small businesses rarely have the time to work out which upgrades will pay off. Business Energy Support gives councils a ready-made way to help
Programs
Business Energy Support has three programs. Each has its own page.
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Business Renewables Buying Group
Businesses spending around $100,000 a year or more on electricity join together to buy 100% renewable electricity.
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Business Energy Support Training
Free Energising Business webinars with 1Circle on energy procurement, solar and grants, and future energy planning.
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Business Energy Support Checklists
Two free practical guides to help small businesses save energy and cut costs.
Who’s guiding the project
Business Energy Support is delivered with member councils and specialist energy advisor 1Circle. The Business Renewables Buying Group was started by Yarra City Council and is now managed by SECCCA, with an experienced external facilitator leading the group process.
What councils get
A ready-made program to offer local businesses, with no need to build their own
Free webinars and checklists to share through council business networks
Support for the business and emissions actions in council climate plans
Help for businesses at every scale, from small shops to large energy users
Why it matters for communities
Lower energy bills help keep local businesses open and jobs local. Every business that switches to renewables or cuts its energy use also reduces emissions across the region.
Progress
Autumn 2026 Energy literacy workshops with 1Circle announced
20 July 2026 Buying Group introductory webinar
Spring 2026 Two free energy-saving checklists released
Oct–Nov 2026 Energising Business webinar series
For councils
Host a workshop
Councils can partner with SECCCA to run Business Energy Support workshops for their local businesses.
