The financial benefits for Noosa business from Environmental Upgrade Agreements were front and centre when Zero Emissions Noosa met with Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart and Economic Development Director Kim Rawlings this week.
EUAs enable business to access no deposit, low interest and long repayment term loans to implement cost-saving energy efficiency technology including rooftop solar. The loan stays with the property and repayments are made through the local council, so there is great security for the lender, which enables lower interest rates. They are already available in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
“We know Noosa businesses are doing it tough, so anything that can help their bottom line must be pursued. EUA’s provide proven support to reduce both emissions and operating costs, essential in a recovering economy”, ZEN President Vivien Griffin said.
“Case studies prove that they can be cash positive from the start.”
“Queensland businesses deserve the same opportunities as their interstate colleagues, and this is one simple, no cost initiative that could help them in these horrendous economic times.
“It requires an amendment to the Local Government Act by the Queensland Government.
“There is no cost burden to the State Government or local councils, who must choose to opt in to the scheme. We strongly believe this must happen as a matter of urgency.”
Ms Griffin said that ZEN had been lobbying the State Government, and already had support from local Independent MP Sandy Bolton.
“We hope that support from local councils including Noosa and the Local Government Association of Queensland would speed up the reform process,” she said.
Ms Griffin said that ZEN was grateful for the opportunity to outline the benefits of EUAs to Mayor Stewart and Kim Rawlings.
“We are convinced this is one simple initiative that could really help business reduce their operating costs. We would love to see Noosa’s business associations get behind this initiative as well, and more details are available on our website at www.zeroemissionsnoosa.com.au.”
