Energy Efficiency Checklist for Retail & Hospitality

1. Energy Efficiency Checklist for Retail & Hospitality Running a business in retail or hospitality means juggling high costs, energy included. Whether you're a café owner, run a boutique, or manage a small chain of stores, cutting energy waste can lead to big savings. One of the easiest ways to start is by reviewing your current energy usage and checking whether you're on the best Small Business Electricity Rates for your needs. To help you take control, here’s a checklist to make your business more energy efficient in 2025. Easy Ways to Save Energy in Retail & Hospitality 1. Know Where Your Energy Is Going Start by checking your past electricity bills or use a smart meter to track usage. Break down the main sources: ● Lighting ● Heating and cooling ● Refrigeration ● Appliances and equipment ● Standby energy use

2. If you're not sure where to begin, check Energy Australia or your current retailer for usage reports—they often provide detailed insights. 2. Upgrade Lighting to LED Lighting can make up a big chunk of your energy bill, especially in hospitality. ● Replace halogen or incandescent lights with LEDs ● Use motion sensors in low-traffic areas (storerooms, toilets) ● Adjust exterior lighting timers seasonally LEDs last longer and use up to 80% less energy than older bulbs—plus, it’s often a quick upgrade you can do without needing major work. 3. Maintain Refrigeration and Kitchen Equipment In cafes, restaurants, or food retail, refrigeration is non-stop. Poorly maintained systems cost you more every hour. ● Clean condenser coils every 3 months ● Check door seals for leaks ● Defrost regularly to prevent ice build-up ● Turn off unused fridges overnight if stock allows Also, look for energy-rated equipment next time you upgrade. It pays off over time. 4. Cut Heating and Cooling Waste Air con and heating are essentials—but they can also be energy drains if not managed right. ● Set the thermostats between 18 and 22°C. ● Close doors and windows when heating/cooling is on ● Use window tinting or blinds to reduce heat in summer ● Service HVAC systems at least once a year Installing ceiling fans or zoned heating can also help balance temperature control without running the system full blast. 5. Use Smart Controls Where You Can Smart switches, timers, and thermostats let you automate energy savings without extra effort. Look for: ● Programmable thermostats ● Smart power strips for entertainment areas or gaming machines

3. ● Timers on signage or outdoor lighting Some electricity providers offer incentives or help with installation— Check Energy Australia or your current supplier to see what’s available. 6. Reduce Standby Power Retail stores and hospitality venues often leave devices like POS systems, monitors, and displays plugged in 24/7. ● Shut down non-essential devices at close ● Use smart plugs to auto-switch off overnight ● Group items on power boards to manage easily Even a small reduction here adds up across months. 7. Ask for a Better Energy Plan Are you sure your plan still suits your needs? If not, it's time to compare. Check for: ● Lower rates during business hours ● Flexible billing options ● Support for upgrades or green energy ● Same-day electricity connection if you’re moving or expanding Smallbusiness electricity rates can vary wildly—even across the same city. A quick review could save hundreds per quarter. 8. Plan Ahead When Moving or Expanding Opening a new shopfront? Renovating? Don't leave the power setup to the last minute. ● Arrange same day electricity connection ahead of move-in ● Ask for meter reactivation if the space was recently vacant ● Compare connection fees across providers This ensures your systems are up and running the day you open. 9. Train Your Team Even the best plan won’t work if your team isn’t on board. Create simple habits: ● Switch off devices before leaving ● Keep doors shut in air-conditioned zones ● Report equipment issues early

4. ● Use signage in staff rooms to remind them of key actions A team that's energy-aware helps reduce waste without extra cost. 10. Track Progress and Review Quarterly Energy saving isn’t one-and-done. So, you should keep track of: ● Monthly bills and usage ● Any operational changes (seasonal menus, longer hours) ● New energy offers or rebates Some providers allow quarterly plan reviews or flexible usage pricing—especially those that support Same Day Electricity Connection and digital metering. Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Wins Improving your business’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be expensive or complex. Start with small, visible changes—then build from there. Need help getting started? Begin with a quick comparison to see what’s out there. You might find better rates, greener plans, or even same-day support. And remember: the best time to act was yesterday. The second best? Today.