author/craigmorgan/feed

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Craig Morgan, Author at Northmore Gordon</title> <atom:link href="https://northmoregordon.com/author/craigmorgan/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/author/craigmorgan/</link> <description>Energy Efficiency Consultancy Company</description> <lastBuildDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2026 03:23:13 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3</generator> <image> <url>https://northmoregordon.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon-150x150.png</url> <title>Craig Morgan, Author at Northmore Gordon</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/author/craigmorgan/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Webinar – Buying renewable certificates across Asia-Pacific under SBTi and RE100</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/news/buying-renewable-certificates-across-asia-pacific-under-sbti-and-re100/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2026 22:35:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[APAC]]></category> <category><![CDATA[IRECs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32986</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Webinar details: Wednesday 11 November 2026, 1:00pm AEDT10:00am Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan11:00am Korea3:00pm New Zealand REGISTER HERE Buying renewable certificates across Asia-Pacific is getting harder to manage consistently. SBTi and RE100 requirements shifted in 2026, climate reporting is asking more questions about what companies buy and where, and the rules still differ significantly between markets....</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/news/buying-renewable-certificates-across-asia-pacific-under-sbti-and-re100/">Webinar – Buying renewable certificates across Asia-Pacific under SBTi and RE100</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph" id="h-"></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Webinar details:</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Wednesday 11 November 2026</strong>, <strong>1:00pm AEDT</strong><br>10:00am Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan<br>11:00am Korea<br>3:00pm New Zealand</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wJpkpnIxRaSmNG0xC4yWaQ"><strong>REGISTER HERE</strong></a><br><br>Buying renewable certificates across Asia-Pacific is getting harder to manage consistently. SBTi and RE100 requirements shifted in 2026, climate reporting is asking more questions about what companies buy and where, and the rules still differ significantly between markets.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon’s upcoming webinar will give corporate buyers a practical view of how renewable certificate markets work across <strong>Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan and Korea</strong> – <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wJpkpnIxRaSmNG0xC4yWaQ" onclick="window.lintrk('track', { conversion_id: 32021521 });"><strong>Register now!</strong></a><br></p> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1000" height="563" src="https://northmoregordon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Morenewable-webinar-Oct-2026HZ-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-33025" srcset="https://northmoregordon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Morenewable-webinar-Oct-2026HZ-1.jpg 1000w, https://northmoregordon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Morenewable-webinar-Oct-2026HZ-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://northmoregordon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Morenewable-webinar-Oct-2026HZ-1-767x432.jpg 767w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h3 id="h-what-we-ll-cover" class="wp-block-heading">What we’ll cover</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>how certificate supply, pricing and rules differ across seven Asia-Pacific markets</li> <li>what changed in SBTi and RE100 in 2026, and what is coming next</li> <li>how certificates support Scope 2 and climate reporting, and where they do not</li> <li>what hourly matching means for corporate buyers</li> <li>the most common procurement mistakes we see across Asia</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon’s trading desk sources and manages certificates across all APAC markets, so the session will focus on how these markets behave in practice, not just how they look on paper.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If your business buys renewable certificates across Asia-Pacific, this session will help you understand what has changed, where the markets differ and what you should be reviewing now.</p> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <script src="https://js-ap1.hsforms.net/forms/embed/442311332.js" defer></script> <div class="hs-form-frame" data-region="ap1" data-form-id="3c9ee300-2de3-4f16-893e-4dff090e5dd4" data-portal-id="442311332"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/news/buying-renewable-certificates-across-asia-pacific-under-sbti-and-re100/">Webinar – Buying renewable certificates across Asia-Pacific under SBTi and RE100</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Northmore Gordon accredited as a GreenPower Renewable Gas Trader</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/news/northmore-gordon-accredited-as-a-greenpower-renewable-gas-trader/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 05:21:52 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Certificates]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Decarbonisation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[GreenPower]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Gas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[RGGO]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32971</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Northmore Gordon is now accredited under the GreenPower Renewable Gas Certification to trade Renewable Gas Guarantee of Origin Certificates (RGGOs).  This means we can buy certificates from certified renewable gas producers and sell them to commercial and industrial gas users. We can also retire certificates in the GreenPower registry for our clients, so their renewable...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/news/northmore-gordon-accredited-as-a-greenpower-renewable-gas-trader/">Northmore Gordon accredited as a GreenPower Renewable Gas Trader</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon is now accredited under the GreenPower Renewable Gas Certification to trade Renewable Gas Guarantee of Origin Certificates (RGGOs). </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This means we can buy certificates from certified renewable gas producers and sell them to commercial and industrial gas users. We can also retire certificates in the GreenPower registry for our clients, so their renewable gas claims are verified and counted only once. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">“We’re working hard to get RGGOs moving in the market,” said Craig Morgan, Sales & Marketing Director at Northmore Gordon. “Renewable gas producers need buyers, and businesses need credible ways to cut their gas emissions. This accreditation lets us bring the two together, and we’re looking forward to working with GreenPower to grow the market.” </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Why it matters</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For many businesses, gas is the hardest part of their emissions to cut. Process heat, boilers and furnaces can’t always be electrified quickly or cheaply. RGGOs give these businesses a credible way to show they use renewable gas, such as biogas, biomethane or renewable hydrogen, under a government-backed certification scheme. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For producers, certificates add a revenue stream that helps renewable gas projects get built and stay viable. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>How we can help</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This accreditation builds on our work helping clients use less energy and decarbonise. We can help you: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>decide whether RGGOs suit your decarbonisation plan </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>buy and retire certificates to back your renewable gas claims </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>connect with certified renewable gas producers </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>combine certificates with efficiency, electrification and fuel-switching projects </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">To talk about how RGGOs could support your decarbonisation goals, contact <a href="mailto://c.morgan@northmoregordon.com">Craig Morgan</a>. </p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/news/northmore-gordon-accredited-as-a-greenpower-renewable-gas-trader/">Northmore Gordon accredited as a GreenPower Renewable Gas Trader</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>STC threshold set to rise from 100kW to 1MW</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/news/stc-threshold-set-to-rise-from-100kw-to-1mw/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 01:42:48 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[LGCs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[STCs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VEECs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VEU Program]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32967</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Clean Energy Regulator has confirmed plans to lift the size limit for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) from 100kW to 1MW, targeting a start date of 1 October 2026. It’s a tenfold increase in the size of solar system eligible for the scheme, a meaningful shift for commercial and industrial projects that currently fall into...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/news/stc-threshold-set-to-rise-from-100kw-to-1mw/">STC threshold set to rise from 100kW to 1MW</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Clean Energy Regulator has confirmed plans to lift the size limit for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) from 100kW to 1MW, targeting a start date of 1 October 2026. It’s a tenfold increase in the size of solar system eligible for the scheme, a meaningful shift for commercial and industrial projects that currently fall into the less favourable Large-scale Generation Certificate (LGC) category above 100kW. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Why it matters in Victoria</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Victorian projects stand to benefit twice over. Under Activity 47 of the Victorian Energy Upgrades program, eligible systems between 30kW and 200kW can already claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs), which we covered in detail in <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/activity-47-a-new-way-to-fund-commercial-solar-in-victoria/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Activity 47: A new way to fund commercial solar in Victoria</a>. Right now, only systems under 100kW can stack STCs on top. Once the new threshold takes effect, that stacking opportunity extends across the full Activity 47 range, up to 200kW. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The right certificate strategy depends on decisions made at the design and metering stage. Work it out before you quote a system, not after installation starts. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>What it’s worth</strong> </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>200kW: STCs + Activity 47 VEECs ≈ $82,916 </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>500kW: staged approach, Activity 47 on the first 200kW, VEECs via M&V on the remaining 300kW ≈ $174,689 </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>1MW: three pathways worth comparing: </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>STCs only (expanded SRES across the whole system): ≈ $222,187 </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Staged stacking (Activity 47 on the first 200kW, VEECs via M&V on the rest): ≈ $280,019 </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Traditional M&V across the whole project, no STC claim: ≈ $341,806 </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The result at 1MW is counterintuitive: the simplest structure, one system assessed as a whole, delivers the highest value, ahead of the staged, stacked approach most people would design toward. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>The change is now locked in</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The regulations enabling this expansion, the <em>Renewable Energy (Electricity) Amendment (Mid-scale Solar) Regulations 2026</em>, are registered and in force, so the 1 October 2026 start date is confirmed. One timing detail worth flagging to clients: STC applications for mid-scale systems won’t open until mid to late November 2026, even though eligibility starts from 1 October. Certificate prices still move with the market, so treat the dollar figures above as indicative rather than fixed. The 1MW traditional M&V figure holds under today’s rules regardless of any of this timing.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Next step</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Certificate strategy needs to be part of the conversation before you quote a system. Talk to Northmore Gordon to work through the right pathway for your next project. </p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/news/stc-threshold-set-to-rise-from-100kw-to-1mw/">STC threshold set to rise from 100kW to 1MW</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>ASRS Group 3: are you in scope and don’t know it?</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/articles/asrs-group-3-are-you-in-scope-and-dont-know-it/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2026 04:42:51 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ASRS]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Scope 3]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32937</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Correct as at 13 September 2026.  If your company is a large proprietary company, you may be legally required to report under Australia’s mandatory climate reporting rules from 1 July 2027 even if you have never reported emissions before. ASRS Group 3 captures companies on size and corporate reporting status, not emissions intensity. That is...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/asrs-group-3-are-you-in-scope-and-dont-know-it/">ASRS Group 3: are you in scope and don’t know it?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><em>Correct as at 13 September 2026.</em> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If your company is a large proprietary company, you may be legally required to report under Australia’s mandatory climate reporting rules from 1 July 2027 even if you have never reported emissions before. ASRS Group 3 captures companies on size and corporate reporting status, not emissions intensity. That is why so many businesses in scope do not think of themselves as carbon reporters. </p> <h2 id="h-the-australian-sustainability-reporting-standards-asrs-group-3-threshold-is-about-size-not-emissions" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The </strong>Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards (ASRS) <strong>Group 3 threshold is about size, not emissions</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">You are likely in Group 3 if your company has a Chapter 2M financial reporting obligation and meets at least two of these three thresholds: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>consolidated revenue of $50 million or more </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>consolidated gross assets of $25 million or more </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>100 or more employees </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Nothing in that list mentions emissions. A distribution business, a professional services firm and a food manufacturer can each be captured on revenue and headcount alone, which is why the first companies to find out are often the ones who assumed the rules were aimed at someone else. </p> <h2 id="h-the-thresholds-may-rise-but-don-t-plan-on-it-yet-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The thresholds may rise, but don’t plan on it yet</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In the 2026–27 Budget the Government announced it would lift the monetary thresholds used to decide whether a proprietary company is large. Revenue would move from $50 million to $100 million and gross assets from $25 million to $50 million. The 100-employee test is expected to stay as it is. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Treasury released a consultation paper on 24 August 2026 seeking feedback on this and other efficiency reforms, with submissions closing on 2 October 2026. Two points matter for your planning. Treasury has not confirmed when any threshold change would commence, and it has said the changes under consideration will not affect entities reporting for the 2026–27 financial year. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you sit between the current and the proposed thresholds, you are in an awkward spot: possibly captured, possibly relieved, with no date either way. Keep preparing until the change is legislated and its start date is known. </p> <h2 id="h-reporting-starts-1-july-2027-but-the-work-starts-well-before-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Reporting starts 1 July 2027, but the work starts well before</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Group 3 reporting applies to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 July 2027. For a June-year company that means the year to 30 June 2028. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">That sounds comfortable until you look at what sits behind the report. You may need to collect emissions data across sites and fuels, confirm your reporting boundaries, assign internal responsibilities, document your assumptions and set up board-level governance most of it before the reporting period opens, because the first year’s data has to come from somewhere. Companies that wait end up building the system and producing the report at the same time. </p> <h2 id="h-being-in-scope-doesn-t-always-mean-full-disclosure-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Being in scope doesn’t always mean full disclosure</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This is the part most Group 3 articles leave out. Under section 296B of the Corporations Act, a Group 3 entity that is not an NGER reporter and concludes it has no material climate-related financial risks or opportunities can lodge a statement saying so, rather than a full set of AASB S2 climate statements. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">That is not a way out. You still have to run the materiality assessment, hold the evidence behind the conclusion and have your directors declare it. It does change the size of the job, though, and it is worth knowing before you commission a reporting program you may not need. </p> <h2 id="h-aasb-s2-asks-for-more-than-a-carbon-footprint-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>AASB S2 asks for more than a carbon footprint</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">AASB S2 Climate-related Disclosures is the standard behind the regime. It covers four areas: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Governance</strong> – how your board and management oversee climate-related risks and opportunities </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Strategy</strong> – how those risks and opportunities could affect your business model, operations, financial position and plans </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Risk management</strong> – how you identify, assess and manage them </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Metrics and targets</strong> – the numbers, including scope 1, scope 2 and scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Australian version adds requirements beyond the international standard, including scenario analysis and disclosure of the financial effects. For most companies the hard part is not the writing. It is getting the data, the assumptions and the evidence trail into shape before the first period opens. </p> <h2 id="h-a-scope-check-should-answer-seven-questions-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>A scope check should answer seven questions</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Before you commission anything larger, get clear answers to these: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Does your company have a Chapter 2M financial reporting obligation? </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Which ASRS group are you likely to fall into? </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Do your consolidated revenue, assets or employee numbers meet the current thresholds? </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Would your position change under the proposed thresholds? </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Are you an NGER reporter, and is the section 296B relief open to you? </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>What emissions and activity data do you already hold, and where are the gaps? </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Who needs to be involved: finance, operations, procurement, legal, risk, ESG or the board? </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For industrial companies the answer usually turns on site-level energy and emissions data. For mid-tier corporates it more often turns on whether finance and compliance can evidence the disclosures. </p> <h2 id="h-where-companies-get-this-wrong-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Where companies get this wrong</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The most expensive mistake is treating ASRS as an ESG project. It sits with financial reporting, governance and compliance, and it needs input from finance, risk, operations and the people who understand your energy use, assets and supply chain. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The other mistakes we see most often: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>relying on outdated threshold numbers without checking the proposed changes </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>assuming the proposed relief will arrive in time to help </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>waiting until the first reporting year to start collecting emissions data </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>assuming scope 1 and scope 2 emissions are already complete and evidence-ready </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>underestimating the scope 3 data task </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>using unsupported assumptions without keeping records </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>asking the board to declare disclosures without a clear evidence trail </li> </ul> <h2 id="h-book-a-free-30-minute-asrs-scope-assessment-nbsp" class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Book a free 30-minute ASRS scope assessment</strong> </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon helps Australian businesses work out whether ASRS applies to them and what to do next. In 30 minutes we will cover which group you are likely to fall into, how the proposed threshold changes affect your position, whether the section 296B relief is open to you, what data you already hold and what your next practical step is. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For industrial and commercial sites we can also connect the reporting obligation to operational data – energy use, fuels, equipment, production activity and emissions sources so your first report rests on measured inputs rather than estimates. Get in touch below for a 30-minute assessment</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/asrs-group-3-are-you-in-scope-and-dont-know-it/">ASRS Group 3: are you in scope and don’t know it?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Where’s the value in renewable heat?</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/articles/wheres-the-value-in-renewable-heat/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:43:03 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Boiler Upgrade]]></category> <category><![CDATA[C&I]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Certificates]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Heat Pump]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Heat]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32886</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Most renewable heat conversations start with a technology question: heat pump, biomass, biogas, or electrify the whole boiler? It’s the wrong starting point. The full value won’t be captured if you don’t align four things that companies often treat separately: the business case, the funding available, the delivery partner, and the revised strategy on how...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/wheres-the-value-in-renewable-heat/">Where’s the value in renewable heat?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Most renewable heat conversations start with a technology question: heat pump, biomass, biogas, or electrify the whole boiler?</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">It’s the wrong starting point. The full value won’t be captured if you don’t align four things that companies often treat separately: the business case, the funding available, the delivery partner, and the revised strategy on how you buy and use energy.</p> <div style="height:19px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>The market is moving faster than the models</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Batteries connected to the wholesale market can no longer be ignored – they are affecting project decisions on C&I sites. They’re starting to change how the wholesale market sets prices, and that has direct implications for the assumptions behind ETES, e-boiler, heat pump and broader electrification projects. If your business case still runs on a historically stable electricity price, it’s worth asking how confident you really are in that number.</p> <div style="height:19px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Certificates can be a certain income stream, not a footnote</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Income from Environmental Certificate markets can shift a business case significantly. Whilst they introduce some complexity, treating them as an afterthought – something to check once a project is already committed – is too late. Which certificates matter right now, which schemes and methods are right for you, and how much are they worth are exactly the kind of detail that’s needed to make the business case work.</p> <div style="height:19px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>The bill isn’t as fixed as it looks</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">All three major components of an energy bill can be changed materially following an energy transition project.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For large energy users, environmental and network charges on the bill can be treated as a fixed cost of doing business. They’re not always. Some of what shows up on the bill is more negotiable, more controllable, or more sensitive to how and when you use energy than it first appears.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Network charges have historically been stable. But in support of the energy transition, there are new tariffs that support large flexible electrical loads. These can change the future bill structure and save money while helping you to decarbonise.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Energy prices are volatile, and energy contracts are becoming more flexible. Getting a new retail supply contract that aligns with the new equipment, the revised network tariff, and new way to buy environmental certificates will set your project up for success.</p> <div style="height:19px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Connect the case, not just the technology</strong></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">We’ve seen people struggle to strongly connect the engineering assessment with the funding, certificates and energy market knowledge. This is lost value.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">That’s the thread running through our stand this year: one team, every option, the real numbers. Compare every pathway. Connect engineering, funding and certificates, and market knowledge. Capture the value that’s usually left on the table.</p> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a id="_msocom_1"></a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/wheres-the-value-in-renewable-heat/">Where’s the value in renewable heat?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Solar irrigation upgrades: Don’t let certificate funding go unclaimed </title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/articles/solar-irrigation-upgrades-dont-let-certificate-funding-go-unclaimed/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2026 03:51:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Agriculture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ESC]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Farming]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Manufacturing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VEECs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32848</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Irrigation pumps are one of the biggest hidden costs on an Australian farm. In particular, if they run on diesel, they’re exposed to fuel price swings, need constant maintenance, and add to your emissions footprint – all to move water you can’t run the farm without. Solar-based pumping is one of the fastest-payback renewable upgrades available to Australian irrigators, and it also comes with government funding attached....</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/solar-irrigation-upgrades-dont-let-certificate-funding-go-unclaimed/">Solar irrigation upgrades: Don’t let certificate funding go unclaimed </a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Irrigation pumps are one of the biggest hidden costs on an Australian farm. In particular, if they run on diesel, they’re exposed to fuel price swings, need constant maintenance, and add to your emissions footprint – all to move water you can’t run the farm without. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Solar-based pumping is one of the fastest-payback renewable upgrades available to Australian irrigators, and it also comes with government funding attached. But that funding is easy to miss – and it’s usually a timing problem, not an eligibility problem. The funding decision needs to be made alongside the engineering decision, not after it. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Why the funding gets missed</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A farm plans a diesel-to-solar electric pump conversion. The engineering is sound: the installer sizes the system, orders the system, and the project goes ahead. Certificate eligibility isn’t checked until afterwards, if it’s checked at all – by which point you can no longer adjust the design to maximise what it qualifies for. You may also be ineligible if you leave it too late. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The upgrade still happens and still cuts running costs. But funding that could have reduced the upfront cost, or been reinvested elsewhere, is left on the table. That’s not a failure of engineering. It’s a failure to connect the engineering decision to the funding decision before the project is locked in. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>State energy schemes can help fund your conversion</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Two states and territories – New South Wales and Victoria – run the best market-based schemes that turn eligible energy upgrades into certificates or credits with real value. Other states don’t run an equivalent scheme, though federal schemes still apply nationwide. Wherever you farm, it’s worth checking what you can access. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"> <br>Captured properly, that value can mean: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Lower upfront capital costs </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>A shorter payback period </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Better return on investment </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>A stronger case in grant and funding applications </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Faster progress against decarbonisation targets <br> </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In NSW, for example, the ESS covers a broad range of pumping upgrades under its Energy Savings Certificates (ESCs), not just full solar conversions: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Diesel-to-solar irrigation pumping conversions </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Diesel-to-electric pumping upgrades </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Solar-assisted pumping systems </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Variable speed drive (VSD) upgrades </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Pumping system optimisation and controls <br> </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Eligible activities and certificate values differ from scheme to scheme. That’s exactly why it pays to check what applies in your state before the project scope is finalised, not after. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Who this is relevant to</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">It’s relevant well beyond the farm gate, wherever you’re located: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Farmers and agribusiness looking to cut input costs </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Solar installers and EPCs (engineering, procurement and construction firms) scoping irrigation projects </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Irrigation providers and agricultural project developers </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Water and irrigation corporations planning infrastructure upgrades<br> </li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Closing the gap between what’s available and what gets claimed</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon’s role is to connect the engineering decision to the funding decision, wherever you farm, so the two are never made apart: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Assessment</strong> – validate what the project qualifies for before the design is locked in </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Business case</strong> – combine the engineering findings with the certificate value so the investment case is complete, not partial </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Environmental certificates</strong> – originate, verify and register certificates across Australia’s state and federal schemes<s>,</s> so the value is properly captured rather than assumed, including </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Energy Savings Certificates (ESCs) in NSW, </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs), </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Peak Reduction Certificates for batteries in NSW (PRCs), and </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) for everywhere else.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon has created more than 7 million environmental certificates and returned over $300 million to clients, with specialist experience across electrification, fuel switching and agricultural energy projects. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Check eligibility before you finalise the design</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you’re weighing up a solar or electrification pumping upgrade – or you’re already partway through planning one – check eligibility before the scope is finalised, wherever you’re located. Once the design is locked in, some of that value is harder to recover. Northmore Gordon offers a free eligibility check: Call <strong>1300 854 561</strong>. </p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/solar-irrigation-upgrades-dont-let-certificate-funding-go-unclaimed/">Solar irrigation upgrades: Don’t let certificate funding go unclaimed </a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>The Power of Big Battery Storage: BESS Unlocking the Future of Renewable Energy for Business</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/articles/the-power-of-big-battery-storage-bess-unlocking-the-future-of-renewable-energy-for-business/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 03:46:24 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Northmore Gordon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=30671</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>As businesses across Australia and the world transition to a low-carbon future, one technology stands out as a game-changer: big battery storage. At Northmore Gordon, we work closely with large enterprises to integrate battery storage into their energy strategy, ensuring sustainability, resilience, and cost savings. Updated July 2026: New battery activities under the NSW Peak...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/the-power-of-big-battery-storage-bess-unlocking-the-future-of-renewable-energy-for-business/">The Power of Big Battery Storage: BESS Unlocking the Future of Renewable Energy for Business</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">As businesses across Australia and the world transition to a low-carbon future, one technology stands out as a game-changer: big <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/technologies/battery-storage-certificates/" data-type="page" data-id="32686">battery storage</a>. At Northmore Gordon, we work closely with large enterprises to integrate battery storage into their energy strategy, ensuring sustainability, resilience, and cost savings.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Updated July 2026:</strong> New battery activities under the NSW Peak Demand Reduction Scheme will commence on 1 September 2026. BESS3 will support eligible apartment battery projects, BESS4 will apply to eligible small and medium business installations, and BESS5 will support larger commercial and industrial battery projects. These activities may allow eligible projects to create Peak Reduction Certificates, helping improve the financial case for battery storage.</p> <h2 id="h-the-rise-of-battery-storage-a-global-and-local-perspective" class="wp-block-heading">The Rise of Battery Storage: A Global and Local Perspective</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Globally, battery storage has become a critical enabler of renewable energy. Countries like the United States, Germany, and China are investing heavily in large-scale batteries to stabilise their grids and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Australia, with its abundance of solar and wind energy, is at the forefront of this revolution. Projects such as the Victorian Big Battery and Hornsdale Power Reserve in South Australia demonstrate the vast potential of energy storage in managing supply and demand fluctuations.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The market for battery storage is booming. BloombergNEF forecasts that global energy storage installations will reach 1,095 gigawatt-hours by 2030, a twentyfold increase from 2021 levels. In Australia, the Clean Energy Council reports that investment in battery storage projects is accelerating, driven by decreasing costs, government incentives, and corporate sustainability commitments.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO’s) integrated system plan calls for a fivefold increase through to 2030.  Given Bloomberg’s forecast, it may well be much greater.  Storage is critical to the energy transition and achieving high penetration of renewable energy.  It’s critical for the grid and is critical for business. </p> <h2 id="h-why-battery-energy-storage-system-bess-is-essential-for-business" class="wp-block-heading">Why Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is Essential for Business</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For medium to large businesses, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is not just about sustainability—it’s about resilience and efficiency. Here’s how it fits into a broader renewable energy strategy:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Energy Cost Savings</strong>: Businesses can store excess solar energy during the day and use it during peak hours when electricity prices are higher, reducing grid reliance and energy bills.</li> <li><strong>Demand Charge Reduction</strong>: Many businesses pay significant demand charges. Batteries can help smooth out peaks in energy use, minimising these costly surges.</li> <li><strong>Backup Power and Reliability</strong>: Batteries provide a safeguard against power outages, ensuring operations continue uninterrupted.</li> <li><strong>Sustainability and Carbon Goals</strong>: Integrating battery storage helps businesses meet corporate sustainability targets and regulatory requirements for emissions reductions.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <h2 id="h-private-and-government-incentives" class="wp-block-heading">Private and Government Incentives</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Energy Retailers and the Australian government is backing battery storage through various initiatives, making it an even more attractive investment for businesses.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Virtual Power Plants (VPP)</strong>: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) can participate in VPP by aggregating their energy storage, providing frequency control and voltage support, and enabling arbitrage trading, ultimately maximizing the value of their storage capacity and contributing to grid stability and flexibility.</li> <li><strong>The Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS)</strong>: This federal scheme encourages private investment in clean energy and storage solutions.</li> <li><strong>State-Based Incentives</strong>: Programs like the NSW Empowering Homes initiative and the Victorian Solar Battery Rebate offer financial support for battery installations.</li> <li><strong>ARENA and CEFC Funding</strong>: The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) provide funding and financing options for battery projects.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">NSW PDRS Battery Incentives: BESS3, BESS4 and BESS5</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">From 1 September 2026, the NSW Peak Demand Reduction Scheme will introduce three new battery activities known as BESS3, BESS4 and BESS5.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">These activities are designed to support battery installations across apartment buildings, small and medium businesses, and larger commercial and industrial facilities.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Eligible projects may create Peak Reduction Certificates, or PRCs. PRCs are tradeable certificates that recognise electricity demand shifted away from peak periods. Their value can help reduce the effective cost of installing a battery energy storage system.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is the difference between BESS3, BESS4 and BESS5?</h2> <figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout"><thead><tr><th>Activity</th><th>Eligible project type</th><th>Battery capacity</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>BESS3</strong></td><td>Eligible apartment buildings</td><td>More than 20 kWh and up to 200 kWh usable capacity</td></tr><tr><td><strong>BESS4</strong></td><td>Eligible small and medium business sites</td><td>More than 20 kWh and up to 200 kWh usable capacity</td></tr><tr><td><strong>BESS5</strong></td><td>Eligible commercial and industrial sites</td><td>More than 200 kWh and up to 30,000 kWh usable capacity</td></tr></tbody></table></figure> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Under the current rules, BESS5 incentives apply only to the first 10,000 kWh of eligible battery capacity. Residential buildings and data centres are excluded from BESS4 and BESS5.</p> <h2 id="h-environmental-certificates-and-financial-offsets" class="wp-block-heading">Environmental Certificates and Financial Offsets</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Businesses investing in battery storage can also benefit from environmental certificate schemes that provide additional financial incentives:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs)</strong>: If paired with renewable generation, businesses may be eligible for LGCs under the Renewable Energy Target scheme, which can be sold to offset installation costs.</li> <li><strong>NSW Peak Reduction Certificates (PRCs) & Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs)</strong>: These state-based schemes reward businesses for energy efficiency initiatives, including battery storage in certain cases.</li> <li><strong>State Grant Programs:</strong> Some states and energy providers offer incentives for businesses that use battery storage to participate in demand response programs, providing payments for reducing grid demand during peak periods.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <h2 id="h-costs-and-financial-offsets" class="wp-block-heading">Costs and Financial Offsets</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">While battery storage systems require a significant upfront investment, these costs can be mitigated through:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Government Grants and Rebates</strong>: Programs at both federal and state levels provide direct funding to offset capital expenditure.</li> <li><strong>Certificate Trading</strong>: Selling LGCs, PRCs, or VEECs can provide an ongoing revenue stream to help recover investment costs.</li> <li><strong>Operational Savings</strong>: Lower electricity bills, reduced demand charges, and participation in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) can enhance financial returns over time.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <h2 id="h-how-northmore-gordon-can-help-with-bess3-bess4-and-bess5" class="wp-block-heading">How Northmore Gordon Can Help with BESS3, BESS4 and BESS5</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">At Northmore Gordon, we take a strategic approach to energy storage. We help businesses navigate the complexities of battery selection, integration, and financial modelling to ensure maximum return on investment. Our services include:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Feasibility Assessments</strong>: Analysing the economic and technical viability of battery storage for your business.</li> <li><strong>Energy Strategy Development</strong>: Creating tailored plans that integrate batteries with on-site renewables and demand management.</li> <li><strong>Incentive and Funding Assistance</strong>: Identifying and applying for available government grants, environmental certificates, and financing options.</li> <li><strong>Implementation and Monitoring</strong>: Ensuring seamless installation and ongoing performance optimisation.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon helps installers, equipment suppliers, project developers and asset owners assess and capture the financial value available from battery projects.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our support can include:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Determining whether a project may qualify under BESS3, BESS4 or BESS5</li> <li>Estimating potential Peak Reduction Certificate revenue</li> <li>Reviewing battery, inverter and solar specifications</li> <li>Identifying technical and evidence requirements</li> <li>Supporting project registration and documentation</li> <li>Managing PRC creation and certificate compliance</li> <li>Integrating battery storage into a broader energy strategy</li> <li>Assessing battery feasibility, cost savings and expected return on investment</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Engaging Northmore Gordon early helps ensure that certificate requirements are considered before equipment is selected and installation begins.</p> <h2 id="h-risks-and-considerations" class="wp-block-heading">Risks and Considerations</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">While battery storage offers numerous benefits, businesses should be aware of potential risks:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><strong>Upfront Costs</strong>: Although prices are falling, battery storage still requires significant initial investment.</li> <li><strong>Technology Maturity</strong>: While lithium-ion batteries dominate the market, emerging technologies like flow batteries and solid-state batteries may offer long-term advantages.</li> <li><strong>Regulatory and Market Changes</strong>: Electricity market rules and incentives are evolving, and businesses must stay informed to maximise their investment.</li> </ul> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <h2 id="h-looking-ahead-the-future-of-battery-storage" class="wp-block-heading">Looking Ahead: The Future of Battery Storage</h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Battery storage is rapidly evolving, with innovations in efficiency, capacity, and lifespan making it an increasingly viable solution for businesses. As grid-scale storage expands and new business models such as Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) gain traction, companies that invest early in battery storage will be well-positioned for the future energy landscape.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">At Northmore Gordon, we are committed to helping our clients harness the power of battery storage. If you’re considering how energy storage can benefit your business, our team is ready to guide you through the process. Let’s shape a smarter, cleaner energy future together.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">For expert advice on battery storage and renewable energy strategies, <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/contact-us/">contact Northmore Gordon today</a>. Click the link to try our <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/battery-storage-calculator-bess/" data-type="page" data-id="32677">Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Calculator</a>.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Disclaimer: The information in this article is general only and has been prepared without considering your business’ particular circumstances and needs. You should assess or seek advice from Northmore Gordon Environmental (AFSL 533927) on whether it is appropriate for your business’s objectives.</p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/the-power-of-big-battery-storage-bess-unlocking-the-future-of-renewable-energy-for-business/">The Power of Big Battery Storage: BESS Unlocking the Future of Renewable Energy for Business</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>How to avoid costly energy project mistakes in manufacturing.</title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/articles/avoid-costly-energy-project-mistakes-in-manufacturing/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 02:26:11 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[electrification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Audit]]></category> <category><![CDATA[energy costs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Engineering]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Feasibility Study]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Manufacturing]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32571</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>In today’s manufacturing environment, making the wrong investment decision is costly due to competition for capital, market share, and the allocation of scarce human resources. Projects like electrification and efficiency upgrades can be complex and resource-intensive. Not only that, but there are usually multiple options with different costs and benefits, and the manufacturing environment is constantly changing.   Worse still, some organisations base these important decisions on incomplete data.   A well-executed feasibility study based on measured data removes...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/avoid-costly-energy-project-mistakes-in-manufacturing/">How to avoid costly energy project mistakes in manufacturing.</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In today’s manufacturing environment, making the wrong investment decision is costly due to competition for capital, market share, and the allocation of scarce human resources. Projects like electrification and efficiency upgrades can be complex and resource-intensive. Not only that, but there are usually multiple options with different costs and benefits, and the manufacturing environment is constantly changing.  </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Worse still, some organisations base these important decisions on incomplete data.  </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A well-executed feasibility study based on measured data removes that uncertainty, providing clear technical and financial insight before decisions are made. This ensures projects deliver real, measurable outcomes. </p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-what-is-a-feasibility-study" class="wp-block-heading">What is a feasibility study? </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A feasibility study assesses whether a proposed project – such as electrification, energy efficiency upgrade or renewable integration – is technically viable, financially sound and operationally practical. Northmore Gordon’s approach goes beyond standard engineering modelling to also consider site-specific operational constraints, the regulatory and business environment and detailed financial analysis including ROI and funding pathways. This enables confident, investment-grade decision-making. </p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-why-feasibility-studies-matter" class="wp-block-heading">Why feasibility studies matter </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Energy and infrastructure projects often require significant capital, and the consequences of poor planning compound quickly. A well-scoped feasibility study identifies true project costs, including hidden risks, validates realistic savings and highlights funding and environmental certificate opportunities. The Australian Energy Efficiency Council notes that well-executed projects can reduce energy costs by 10-30%, but only when properly scoped and implemented. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Without detailed analysis, projects frequently underperform, or worse, the wrong project is selected. Good feasibility studies provide accurate analysis based on measured data, and consider a range of risks including energy savings being realised, energy price variability, external market conditions, current business performance and future business direction. They also allow organisations to move from reactive upgrades to strategic decarbonisation, prioritising initiatives based on environmental and energy targets, emissions reduction potential, cost-effectiveness, operational impact and future business direction. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Organisations that bypass feasibility analysis often face overestimated savings, budget overruns from incomplete scope, wrong equipment selection, lost funding or certificate opportunities and compliance gaps. In many cases, businesses end up reinvesting to fix poorly planned systems, effectively paying twice. </p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-why-feasibility-studies-matter-for-industry" class="wp-block-heading">Why feasibility studies matter for industry </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Industrial environments are complex, with tight margins, resource constraints, and uptime pressures. Poorly planned projects can disrupt production, increase maintenance costs and result in underperforming assets. For CFOs and facility managers, a feasibility study answers the critical questions before capital is committed: Will this solution work on our site? What are the operational risks? What is the real return? </p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-manufacturing-situations-that-benefit-most" class="wp-block-heading">Manufacturing situations that benefit most </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Feasibility studies deliver value in all manufacturing facilities at any time. However their impact, and the energy efficiency (or productivity) benefit is super-charged when  </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Old equipment needs upgrading </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>The production mix has changed, leaving some equipment operating less efficiently</li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Production output has changed (either higher or lower), resulting in poorly matched utility systems </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>There are structural shifts in the price differential between electricity and gas </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>The business has energy or carbon targets that are not being met </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>The business is looking for a step change in performance </li> </ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>At the design stage, before a new plant is even being built. </li> </ul> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-what-makes-northmore-gordon-different" class="wp-block-heading">What makes Northmore Gordon different </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Northmore Gordon delivers senior expertise without the bureaucracy of large firms or the limitations of volume providers. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our engineering team conducts detailed system modelling and technology-specific analysis that goes beyond standard approaches. With 15+ years of Australian experience, we integrate business needs and an understanding of the regulatory environment into every engagement. Our financial modelling covers ROI and scenario analysis, certificate optimisation and funding pathways. Clients work directly with senior engineers, no account management layers, faster decisions and clearer advice. </p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-case-study" class="wp-block-heading">Case study </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a recent manufacturing electrification project, Northmore Gordon identified a viable technical pathway, uncovered significant certificate revenue opportunities and redesigned the system to reduce capital cost. The project delivered both emissions reduction and strong financial returns, outcomes that would not have been achieved without detailed upfront analysis. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://northmoregordon.com/case-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Explore more case studies on our website.</a> </p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <h2 id="h-conclusion" class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion </h2> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Feasibility studies are not optional, but well-rounded feasibility studies can be rare. They are essential for reducing risk, improving outcomes and navigating regulatory requirements. They enable organisations to invest with confidence, avoid costly mistakes and maximise financial and environmental outcomes. At Northmore Gordon, feasibility studies help organisations achieve better results with less risk, less waste and less uncertainty. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/avoid-costly-energy-project-mistakes-in-manufacturing/">How to avoid costly energy project mistakes in manufacturing.</a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Are you overpaying for environmental charges on your energy bill? </title> <link>https://northmoregordon.com/articles/overpaying-for-environmental-charges/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Craig Morgan]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 25 May 2026 22:30:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Certificates]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Energy Retailer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Environmental Charges]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ESCs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[LGCs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[STCs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VEECs]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://northmoregordon.com/?p=32468</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Environmental certificate costs are often the most overlooked line on a commercial or industrial energy bill. Most buyers treat them as fixed, bundled into the electricity or gas contract and managed by the retailer. Negotiation effort goes into tariffs, demand charges and network costs. Environmental charges get a fraction of the scrutiny.  They shouldn’t. By buying environmental certificates directly from Northmore Gordon...</p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/overpaying-for-environmental-charges/">Are you overpaying for environmental charges on your energy bill? </a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Environmental certificate costs are often the most overlooked line on a commercial or industrial energy bill. Most buyers treat them as fixed, bundled into the electricity or gas contract and managed by the retailer. Negotiation effort goes into tariffs, demand charges and network costs. Environmental charges get a fraction of the scrutiny. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">They shouldn’t. By buying environmental certificates directly from Northmore Gordon and handing them to your retailer to surrender on your behalf, you can cut this component of your bill by 50%. </p> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>How environmental charges are built into your contract</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Environmental certificates, VEECs, LGCs, STCs and ESCs, are required under various regulatory schemes. The obligation to surrender them is fixed by law. How you buy them is not. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a traditional energy supply arrangement, the retailer sources the certificates, bundles them into your contract, and passes the cost through to you. It’s convenient. They also add a procurement margin and often hide the underlying price. For a large energy user across multiple sites, that margin quietly becomes a material cost. </p> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>Already signed your energy contract? You can probably still act</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Many buyers assume that once the contract is signed, certificate costs are locked in. They usually aren’t. Most contracts allow the customer to provide their own certificates to meet scheme obligations. You buy them yourself, hand them to the retailer, and the retailer surrenders them under the scheme. Same certificates, same compliance outcome, lower cost. </p> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>What this looks like for a 25 GWh manufacturer</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A manufacturing facility using 25-30 GWh of electricity a year can face environmental certificate obligations of $150,000-$400,000. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">If those certificates are bought through a retailer with a 5-10% margin, the hidden cost is $7,500-$40,000 a year. For every $1 million spent on certificates, a 5-10% margin adds $50,000-$100,000. </p> <div style="height:20px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p class="wp-block-paragraph"><strong>How Northmore Gordon can help</strong> </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">We review your energy contracts, analyse how certificate costs are priced, and source certificates directly on your behalf. You keep the same compliance position, we cut out the margin and save you money. </p> <p class="wp-block-paragraph">To see what you could save, contact <a href="https://share-ap1.hsforms.com/2r6eGnlzVSaCPLXCGnQSIWQ7bc9lw">Northmore Gordon.</a> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://northmoregordon.com/articles/overpaying-for-environmental-charges/">Are you overpaying for environmental charges on your energy bill? </a> appeared first on <a href="https://northmoregordon.com">Northmore Gordon</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel> </rss>