1300 466 398 
Relocating or establishing your business premises involves many considerations. In Australia, where the drive towards sustainability and energy efficiency is increasingly becoming a focal point for businesses, finding a building that aligns with these values is imperative.
With that in mind, let’s navigate through the essential aspects you should scrutinise when selecting your next business location, with a keen eye on energy usage, efficiency, and sustainability.
1. Navigating the National Construction Code (NCC)
A. Understanding Energy Efficiency Requirements
Australia’s NCC mandates certain standards concerning the energy efficiency of commercial buildings. Familiarising yourself with the Building Code of Australia (BCA), a volume within the NCC, will equip you with the necessary knowledge to evaluate whether a building complies with the relevant standards, ensuring you align your business with statutory requirements.
B. Accessibility and Safety
While your prime focus might be energy efficiency, never underestimate the importance of ensuring that the premises also adhere to the accessibility and safety provisions in the NCC.
2. Assessing the Building’s Energy Efficiency
A. Commercial Building Disclosure (CBD) Program
Under the CBD Program, most sellers or lessors of a commercial office space of 1000 square meters or more must obtain and disclose an up-to-date Building Energy Efficiency Certificate (BEEC). Be sure to analyse this certificate, as it reveals critical information about the building’s energy efficiency.
B. Utilising the NABERS Rating
The National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) rates a building’s energy efficiency, environmental impact, and waste management. A building with a higher NABERS rating will not only help in reducing your energy costs but also position your business as environmentally responsible.
3. Considering Renewable Energy Options
A. Solar Power Utilisation
Being abundantly blessed with sunlight, Australia offers immense potential for utilising solar energy. Take the time to inspect whether the building is equipped with or can support solar panels so you may tap into this renewable energy source.
B. Government Incentives
Explore the various government incentives and programs designed to support businesses transitioning to using renewable energy. These may be rebates or tax incentives, potentially offsetting some of your initial investment costs.
C. Discussing Options With Owner
If you are leasing a premise, consider discussing with the owner if they are open to switching energy providers or exploring renewable energy options to improve the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the premise. They may be willing to finance some or all of it.
4. Sustainable Practices and Green Spaces
A. Incorporating Green Spaces
Besides energy efficiency, consider how the business premises can contribute to a healthier environment and employee well-being by incorporating internal and external green spaces.
B. Adopting Sustainable Practices
Investigate the feasibility of integrating sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting, recycling systems, and utilising sustainable materials within the premises.
5. Future-Proofing Your Business
A. Scalability and Flexibility
Ensure the building can accommodate your future growth without significant restructuring or excessive energy usage. A modular approach towards energy usage and space utilisation can be particularly advantageous.
B. Technological Compatibility
Ensure the premises can support the technological infrastructure that aligns with energy-efficient practices, such as smart meters, efficient cooling systems, and electric vehicle charging stations.
C. Internet capabilities
It is important to ensure that the premises have the capacity to support the Internet and that the reception is strong. Poor internet makes working difficult and may contribute to decreased efficiency.
Finding the Perfect Workspace
Opting for business premises that offer energy efficiency and sustainability is not merely a choice but a vital investment in the future. It ensures your business aligns with Australia’s drive towards a sustainable future. You will show your clients and competitors that you are ardently contributing towards a greener planet while ensuring operational cost-efficiency.
When your choice is made – call your retailer!
Your energy provider is an invaluable partner in this journey, assisting you in navigating the multitude of energy options and technologies available to ensure your business premises are as energy-efficient and sustainable as possible.
Remember to provide your chosen retailer with as much notice as possible when you relocate your premises – to ensure that the power is on when you need it! Moving premises will often mean you need a new electricity contract, and is the perfect time to shop around! Remember that retailers will need to know when to turn off the energy at your old premises, too!
At Next Business Energy, not only can we help you with your next business move, but we also work to assist you in getting the most out of your energy usage. We champion the move towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future and encourage businesses to embrace energy efficiency. Visit our website for more information on moving premises and improving your business’s energy efficiency.