Chapter Initiatives

The National Electrical and Communications Association’s (NECA) Lean and Green initiative, is a business support program that aims to tackle rising energy costs, which was launched last week in the Tropical North Queensland city of Cairns.

The launch was attended by the Federal Member for Leichardt, The Honourable Warren Entsch MP, Deputy Mayor of Cairns Regional Council, Councillor Terry James, well known TV host, social entrepreneur and author of the Energy Cut Book, John Dee and NECA’s Chief Executive Officer, Suresh Manickam.

Lean and Green is an initiative for small businesses that combines energy audits, the EcoSmart Electricians training program and low interest finance to help owners identify how to become more energy efficient and save money on energy bills.

NECA CEO Suresh Manickam said that further opportunities exist to educate business and consumers about the importance of clean energy initiatives.

“With electricity prices likely to rise, industry and consumers are keen to explore more efficient and effective ways to not only reduce their power bills, but be a part of a more sustainable future.”

John Dee, the host of Smart Money, a live weekly prime time program on the Sky News Money and Business Channels said that ‘Energy efficiency is a guaranteed way to improve the profitability, resilience and value of your business. The Lean and Green initiative is a great opportunity for Cairns business owners’.

Mick Logan, Executive Director of NECA Queensland said the Lean and Green initiative differs from other energy efficiency programs because it has been industry developed, uses independent auditors and connects business owners with Eco-Smart trained electricians and low interest finance for energy efficiency investment back into the business.

“Wasted energy is lost profit, so let’s get lean and green” Mr Logan said.

Members wanting to undertake NECAs Eco Smart Electrician training and accreditation should contact Rob in North Queensland on 0418 996 268.