Darebin City Council has partnered with Yarra Energy Foundation and vetted installers, All Electric Homes and Enviroflex, to offer a range of quality, affordable energy upgrades to Darebin residents and businesses. Our partners can also help you access any eligible government rebates.
Select a product below for more details, pricing and available rebates.
Installing solar panels allows businesses to generate clean electricity during the day, which is typically when energy consumption is highest. You’ll remain connected to the grid for overnight or cloudy-day energy needs, and any additional grid electricity can be sourced from a 100% renewable supplier or even better, Greenpower.
Adding a battery enables you to store unused solar power, making it ideal for businesses with 24/7 energy demands such as refrigeration. Batteries with blackout protection can also safeguard critical systems or allow continued trading during outages.
A reverse cycle air conditioner (or split system) is around four times more efficient than gas heating. Reverse cycle air conditioners also provide efficient cooling over the summer months.
Split systems for business use (including home businesses) may be eligible for an additional $1,000 rebate through the Darebin Energy$mart program.
Replacing your old gas hot water system with a heat pump system is an excellent way to reduce running costs and utilise renewable energy. Heat pump hot water systems for business use (including home businesses) may be eligible for an additional $1,000 rebate through the Darebin Energy$mart program.
According to Sustainability Victoria, heat pump systems use 60–75% less electricity than traditional electric systems. Additionally, they can be programmed to heat water during the middle of the day, acting like a thermal battery and storing excess solar energy.
The best returns on investment can be achieved by heavy hot water users, ranging from small businesses such as hairdressers, massage therapists, or gyms who use a lot of hot water, through to food manufacturers or others who require industrial amounts of high temperature water for cleaning. Any business can benefit from replacing a gas hot water system, as this enables the use of clean renewable energy for hot water and is another step towards getting rid of your gas connection.
Domestic-sized units are available through this program, contact the Sustainable Business team to discuss larger systems through the Energy$mart program. sustainable.business@darebin.vic.gov.au
Transitioning to electric transport is a practical way to embrace a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective future. Whether it’s bikes, cars, vans, trucks, buses, or forklifts, switching to electric reduces emissions and operational costs.
Charging your electric vehicle on site is convenient and allows you to make the most of off-peak electricity pricing, or even better, use your own solar energy. Compared to petrol cars, charging your EV at your business could save you $1,000–$2,000 per year, depending on how much you drive.
Induction cooktops heat quickly while keeping surfaces cool to the touch. The smooth, flat surface of induction cooktops makes them easy to clean, saving time and labour. They reduce health risks from gas stoves, offering a safe and efficient cooking option.
Only domestic model induction cooktops are available through this program, contact your commercial kitchen suppliers for restaurant and café rated models.
Thick, continuous insulation can reduce heating and cooling needs by up to 45%, significantly lowering energy bills and improving comfort. Ceiling insulation alone can cut heat loss in winter by 25–35%, while wall and floor insulation further reduce heat transfer. Our vetted supplier can install new insulation or top up existing insulation.
Gaps and cracks, such as around windows, doors and exhaust fans can account for up to 25% of heat loss in winter and allow hot air to enter in summer. Sealing gaps prevents air leakage, reduces heating and cooling costs and improves comfort.