A three minute phone call was all it took for one Tamworth business to cut their power bill by over 25 per cent, and hundreds of fellow operators have done the same all over the state.
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The NSW Business Chamber’s 5in5 campaign was launched last month and aims to save $5 million in future energy bills in just five weeks.
Amazingly the program has already eclipsed the $4 million mark, and the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA) can’t believe just how simple it was.
ABCRA accounts and administration officer Sharon Harris said the timing of the program was perfect.
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“The NSW Chamber gave us a call, and we had already been speaking about having a look at it, but they made it so easy,” she said.
“The chamber set up a phone appointment with their comparison-and-switch service, who went through our last bill with me on the phone for three minutes, then within 30 seconds gave me four options to change.
“We are saving over $1700 a year.”
Like many businesses and residents the ABCRA had fallen into the trap of not updating or contacting their provider, who was Origin Energy, once the initial contract term had expired.
“We are now on a contract with Energy Australia which offers a 34 per cent discount if we pay on time, and does not lock us in to any set term,” Mrs Harris said.
“The old provider offered the same thing, although didn’t let us know that when the contract expired.”
The ABCRA are using the savings to further develop staff.
“We are a not for profit organisation so the management of our member’s money is paramount.
“Absolutely every business should contact the NSW Chamber and do this – I can’t imagine what some of the larger operations might be able to save – it’s brilliant.”
Chamber Regional Manager Joe Townsend said that the ABCRA are just one of several local success stories.
“The 5in5 campaign has been received strongly by the community, and we are on the verge of achieving $4 million in estimated future savings for over 2,000 members, customers and residents,” he said.
“Results have been astonishing, with 8 of 10 business saving an average of $1796 per annum on their energy costs.
“Through the campaign, we are determined to show government and energy providers that we are united in our quest for affordable energy.
“If you are passionate about keeping money in your town where it can bolster the local economy, the savings challenge can deliver.”