Small businesses can downgrade energy costs through the installation of simple energy saving devices, new research has revealed.

A study conducted by the Moreland Energy Foundation (MEFL) with a Pascoe Vale liquor store "Bottle King" has found energy cost savings for that business of $1,300 per year.

The research involved the installation of simple low-cost timers on Bottle King’s seven drinks fridges. The timers switched off the fridges overnight, and switched them on again in the morning, cutting running costs by almost half. The temperature was monitored to ensure the fridges remained cool all night.

Moreland Energy Foundation CEO, Paul Murfitt said: “With or without a carbon price, electricity prices are going up”

“Many smaller businesses are concerned about their energy bills, and this research demonstrates that businesses can save energy at very low cost”

“We have a team of technical experts freely available to businesses as part of our Business Support Program, and we can save energy for any kind of small business”

“Any business operating in the Moreland municipality can sign up to the program via our website or by contacting our office.”

The case study will be unveiled next Thursday 22 September at a breakfast event for local businesses in Moreland. The event will promote MEFL’s Business Support Program, which is helping small businesses to save energy, and a number of local business leaders will be presenting.