Yarra Ranges Council is inviting businesses and commercial property owners to save money and go green.
Under Environmental Upgrade Agreements (EUAs) now available, they can apply to have building upgrades paid for with a long-term competitive loan secured on the property.
Upgrades include solar power, energy and water efficiency and other environmental improvements.
The owner will then repay the loan through their council rates, where council transfers the repayments to Better Building Finance.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Len Cox said allowing building owners and tenants to pay their loans back at a low rate would result in immediate benefits from energy efficiency on their building.
“We know that installing upgrades such as solar panels can be tough for small businesses, due to the upfront cost,” he said.
“Upgrading your building to improve energy, water, environmental efficiency and sustainability isn’t just great for the environment, but it saves money in the long run, too.
“Through the EUA, business owners will be able to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on bills, while property owners benefit from increased property values and a low interest rate on repayments.
“I encourage all of our local businesses to read more about EUAs and to apply to get their project underway.”
Better Building Finance is powered by the Sustainable Melbourne Fund and is administering the EUA program for 21 councils across the state.
“EUAs are saving businesses $2.8m annually,” Building Better Finance executive manager Shay Singh said.
“Victoria is the fastest growing EUA market in Australia and it is great to have councils like Yarra Ranges joining in to support the local business community.”
Visit betterbuildingfinance.com.au for more information.
