Small businesses can discover how to slash their water, sewage and trade waste costs, thanks to Central Coast Council’s new business water conservation education program. 

Using a range of “smart” technology and physical plumbing audits, Council will help businesses monitor how they use water and identify areas of waste, including hidden leaks. 

Council’s Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said the new program will not only help small businesses to reduce their utility costs and increase their profits but will also help further secure the region’s water supply. 

“We already work with big businesses which use high volumes of water, and now we would like to provide practical water-saving tips for smaller businesses,” Mr Loader said. 

“With more than 23,000 businesses on the Coast, a small water saving for each business can add up to a large saving for the region.” 

As part of the program, a “smart” water logger will be installed for up to two months on the business’ water meter. This will measure real time water use, highlighting periods of peak usage and help to identify if there are hidden leaks which require attention. 

A plumber will also visit the business to audit water-use behaviours and fixtures. At the end of the program, a report will be provided to the business owner showing ways they can reduce water use. 

Mayor Lisa Matthews said that through community consultation, Central Coast residents have told Council that regional water security and resilience is very important. 

“The Central Coast is a place where small business thrives and provides opportunity for residents to work locally,” Mayor Matthews said. 

“By helping small businesses reduce their operating costs, we will not only be helping to save water but will be providing them with the chance to continue growing and benefiting the wider community.” 

To be eligible for the Small Business Water Education Program, businesses must: 

• be located on the Central Coast
• be non-franchised 
• have a single location
• have an individual water meter.

Places in the first round of the program are limited, with applications closing on Wednesday 8 April 2020.

For further information about how to apply for the program, visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/BusinessWaterAudit