Even energy-concious businesses can unknowingly pay more than they should
In today’s unpredictable business environment, where energy prices are rising and overheads are tight, many small businesses are searching for smarter ways to cut costs.
For Unity Pilates in Brighton East, that meant looking beyond the obvious. Owner Elisa Messina already ran an energy-efficient studio using LED lighting and reverse-cycle heating and cooling. Yet she suspected more could be done. When the chance came to receive an energy assessment through a Village Zero program, funded by Bayside City Council, Elisa jumped on it. She was curious to find out if her energy bills could be trimmed further—even in a leased space where structural upgrades weren’t an option.
What the energy assessment revealed
Green Moves visited the studio and quickly identified a key issue:
- The gas hot water system hadn’t worked for years, and hot water wasn’t needed
- Despite this, the business was still connected to gas, and being charged ongoing connection fees
- Worse still, the studio was billed on estimated gas usage, not actual readings. This resulted in charges for gas they weren’t even using.
In addition, Elisa’s electricity plan wasn’t the most cost-effective. While she already used appliances wisely, switching tariffs could still yield savings.
Simple changes that led to big results
By disconnecting the unused gas and switching to a cheaper electricity plan (via the Victorian Energy Compare tool), Elisa was able to save approximately $740 per year — a 46% reduction in energy bills.
- $520 saved by disconnecting the gas (supply charges and estimated gas that wasn’t used)
- $220 saved by changing to a more competitive electricity tariff
All without new equipment, major upgrades, or changes to the way the studio was operated.
The reality of energy changes in a leased space
Elisa also received recommendations to improve insulation and draught sealing. However, as the studio is leased, part of a double-brick building with partial ceiling insulation and single-glazed front windows, she felt limited in what could realistically be done.
This is a common challenge for many businesses operating in older, rented buildings, and exactly why tailored energy assessments from Green Moves are so valuable. We focus on practical changes you can control, like billing accuracy, tariff comparisons, and energy habits, especially when building improvements are out of reach.
Community support making a real difference
This project was delivered through Village Zero, a community organisation using funding from a Bayside Council grant to support and benefit local businesses in reducing carbon emissions and running costs. Green Moves is proud to partner with councils and community organisations across Victoria to bring expert energy guidance to businesses of all sizes.
Elisa’s verdict
Despite frustrations with the gas retailer (long phone queues, slow disconnection times), the overall experience was a very positive one. “We weren’t aware of some of the things that were going on. The assessment was very thorough and I’d definitely recommend it to others.”
Elisa now plans to review her energy tariffs every six months to make sure she’s always getting the best deal.
Could your business be missing hidden savings too?
If you’re:
- running a small business in a leased or older building
- unsure whether your bills are accurate
- wanting to reduce costs without expensive upgrades
An energy assessment from Green Moves could be the simple, smart solution you’re looking for. We’re here to help you understand your energy use, reduce waste, and save money—with expert, practical advice tailored to your situation.
Contact Green Moves to see how we can help.
