The New South Wales Government is set to provide more than 300,000 small businesses across the state with rebates on their energy bills.
Eligible small businesses using less than 100MWh of electricity per year will receive $650 towards their electricity bills.
Small businesses have not been able to access New South Wales energy rebates until now.
Eligible small business retail customers do not need to do anything as their retailer will apply the energy bill relief to their electricity account from 31 July 2023 in quarterly instalments.
Small businesses that are part of an embedded network (for example, located in a shopping centre) will be able to apply from October 2023.
In addition to the relief for small businesses, 1.6 million eligible low-income households, pensioners, self-funded retirees, families, veterans, carers and people who use life support equipment will receive $500 to help pay their electricity bills.
Most eligible households will receive the Energy Bill Relief payment automatically. The New South Wales Government is encouraging all households to check their eligibility for the energy rebates with their retailer or on the Service NSW website and apply if needed.
The Energy Bill Relief payments are being delivered in partnership, with $485 million pledged by the New South Wales Government and $481 million by the Federal Government to provide targeted, temporary energy bill relief in the 2023-24 financial year.
Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, said that the government is taking the edge off rising power bills for 320,000 small businesses across New South Wales.
“Power bill relief for business means cost-of-living relief for all of us. That’s a good thing for families and households,” Mr Minns said.
“I know small businesses and families are doing it tough right now.
“1.6 million households will be getting Energy Bill Relief too.
“If you’re an eligible business or a household, check that you’re getting a rebate.
“We want everyone who is eligible to get this help.”
Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe, said that the government was elected to provide real support for small businesses and that is what it is delivering.
“The Energy Bill Relief Fund will help around 300,000 eligible small businesses pay their bills,” Ms Sharpe said.
“The New South Wales Government is committed to keeping downward pressure on power prices, while working to provide cleaner and cheaper energy through renewable sources.”
Minister for Small Business, Steve Kamper, said that with the increases to electricity prices, this targeted relief will help keep businesses’ doors open.
“The New South Wales Government is partnering with businesses to provide them with the support they need.”
