PRESS RELEASE: NSW Businesses Can Slash Energy Costs with Government-Backed LED Upgrade Scheme

NSW Businesses Can Slash Energy Costs with Government-Backed LED Upgrade Scheme

In a climate of rising costs and growing environmental awareness, NSW businesses are being urged to rethink how they use energy. Fortunately, a government-backed initiative – the NSW LED upgrade scheme – is making the switch to energy-efficient lighting both affordable and straightforward.

The NSW LED Light Upgrade scheme is part of the broader Energy Savings Scheme (ESS) https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/nsw-plans-and-progress/regulation-and-policy/energy-security-safeguard/energy-savings-scheme. It’s specifically designed to help commercial spaces reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions without hefty upfront costs.

According to energy.gov.au, “LEDs use about 75% less energy than halogen light bulbs and last 5 to 10 times longer, greatly reducing replacement costs and the number of light bulbs ending up in landfill.”
The Consumer Policy Research Centre also reports that more and more Australians are considering sustainability when they buy products. For example, the report comments, “Forty-five percent of Australians always or often consider sustainability as part of their purchasing decision-making.”

Efficient Energy Group https://www.efficientenergygroup.com.au/office-lighting-and-retail-lighting/ (EEG) CEO Josh Liptak explains, “For small businesses using less than 273kWh per day, the program offers a $33 co-payment LED upgrade. This is delivered through the Home Energy Efficiency Retrofit (HEER) stream https://www.energysustainabilityschemes.nsw.gov.au/home-energy-efficiency-retrofits That means cafés, retail shops, and office spaces can replace outdated fluorescent or halogen lighting with high-performance LED systems. All for a fraction of the usual cost.”

He adds, “Larger energy users aren’t left out either. Rebates for these businesses can cover up to 80% of installation costs, depending on the size and scope of the upgrade.”

Efficient Energy Group (EEG), one of NSW’s leading accredited providers, is helping businesses navigate the process and unlock significant savings. “Lighting upgrades are one of the simplest and most impactful ways for businesses to reduce overheads,” said Joshua Liptak. “They also improve sustainability. We’ve seen clients cut lighting costs by up to 70%. The improvements in light quality and workplace safety are immediate.”
The program is open to a wide range of commercial spaces from boutique retail stores and corporate offices to underground car parks and industrial warehouses. In some cases, eligible businesses have received rebates of up to $20,000. This makes the transition to LED lighting not only cost-effective but also financially compelling.

But the benefits go beyond just dollars and cents. LED lighting offers a cleaner, brighter, and more consistent light source. This can improve customer experience and employee wellbeing. Poor lighting is often linked to fatigue, eyestrain, and reduced productivity. These issues are easily addressed with a modern lighting upgrade.

Then there’s the environmental impact to consider. Lighting accounts for a significant portion of commercial energy use. Switching to LED technology is a practical step toward NSW’s broader climate goals, including a 70% reduction in emissions by 2035 and net zero by 2050.

So, for businesses looking to align with sustainability targets or ESG commitments, the LED upgrade scheme offers a concrete way to make progress.
The process is simple. EEG conducts a free site assessment, recommends suitable LED upgrades, and manages the rebate application on behalf of the business. Installation is quick, with minimal disruption to daily operations. The long-term savings begin immediately.

For business owners juggling tight margins and growing operational demands, the NSW LED light upgrade program is a rare win-win. Lower energy bills, improved lighting quality, and a meaningful step toward a more sustainable future.

To check your eligibility or learn more, visit Efficient Energy Group or explore the NSW LED upgrade scheme.