Here is an 8-question FAQ based on the provided source:

FAQ: Impact of Gas and Electricity Price Changes on Small Businesses

•What are the key findings of the Energy Consumers Australia SME Retail Tariff Tracker?
The tracker reveals rising energy costs for small businesses. Electricity bills for those consuming 20,000 kWh increased by an average of $520 (8%) between April 2023 and April 2024, while gas bills rose by 7%. Fixed supply charges, particularly in Western Australia, have also increased.

•How do rising energy costs affect small businesses?
Rising energy costs negatively impact profitability, particularly when there are significant price spikes. Increased fixed supply charges add further financial pressure, making effective cost-saving strategies essential.

•What strategies can small businesses employ to manage rising energy costs and improve efficiency?
Businesses can adopt energy-efficient practices such as optimising equipment, using smart monitoring tools, and reducing overall energy consumption. A centralised platform to manage energy accounts can also help identify efficiency opportunities.

•What is Termina and how does it help small businesses deal with fluctuating energy prices?
Termina is a company that helps small businesses manage rising energy costs by automatically keeping them on the lowest prices available in the market. It leverages buying power across multiple locations to negotiate better-than-market rates, providing significant savings and financial stability. Termina also offers a centralised platform for managing energy accounts and provides dedicated account managers.

•How does Termina help businesses secure lower energy rates?
Termina negotiates better-than-market rates by leveraging the combined buying power of over 2,500 locations. This allows them to secure exclusive rates that are below standard market prices, providing financial relief to small businesses.

•How does Termina help businesses identify and implement energy efficiency measures?
Termina provides a centralised platform to manage all energy accounts, supported by a dedicated account manager. This helps businesses identify opportunities for energy efficiency and ensures they benefit from the lowest available prices.

•What are the benefits of using a centralised platform for energy account management, as offered by Termina?
A centralised platform streamlines energy account management, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. It helps businesses stay in control of their energy expenses, identify efficiency opportunities, and provides access to dedicated account managers.

•What is the overall conclusion regarding energy prices and small businesses in 2024?
Fluctuating gas and electricity prices pose challenges for small businesses, but solutions like Termina offer a way to regain control of energy costs, improve operational efficiency, and secure long-term sustainability in a competitive market. Businesses can turn energy challenges into opportunities by implementing proactive and technology-driven solutions.