by Grant Truman | Aug 14, 2024 | Case Studies, News, Sustainable Business, Waste
Read Director of Operations Grant Truman’s testimonial on how Total Utilities cut Dilworth School’s waste costs by 43% and transformed their waste management.
“Partnering with Total Utilities has been a game-changer for Dilworth School. Their expertise in waste management has resulted in annual savings translating to a 43% reduction in our waste costs. Total Utilities has simplified a complex process, freeing up valuable time for both myself and my team. Their innovative approaches have significantly enhanced our waste management efficiency while making steps in reducing our environmental impact and improving the cleanliness and safety on our sites.
Special thanks to Total Utilities’ Sustainable Business Improvement Manager, Pravind Singh, for securing waste management services that not only offer competitive pricing but also align with doing waste better. His efforts ensured a client-friendly process while advancing our knowledge of environmentally responsible practices. Total Utilities has proven to be an invaluable partner in achieving both efficiency in operations and cost while taking steps to be more sustainable.”
Grant Truman
Director of Operations
Dilworth School
– Contact Total Utilities to learn more about our waste management, procurement, and landfill reduction services.
by Chris Hargreaves | Jun 25, 2024 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste
As New Zealand moves forward with phased increases in the waste disposal levy over the next three years, your business needs to prepare for significant changes in waste management practices.
On May 31, 2024, the New Zealand government greenlit the second phase of waste disposal levy rate increases, paving the way for incremental changes over the next three years.
This strategic move aims to refine waste management practices and enhance environmental sustainability across the country.
Understanding the Waste Levy
The waste disposal levy, introduced under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008, is a fee imposed on waste sent to landfill. The primary goal of the levy is to provide a financial incentive to reduce the amount of waste being disposed of in landfills and to promote recycling and resource recovery efforts.
Revenue from the levy is used to support waste minimisation initiatives, including projects and programmes that improve recycling, composting, and waste reduction.
What You Need to Know
Total Utilities’ Sustainable Process Improvement Manager Pravind Singh explains, “The waste disposal levy is being expanded to cover a wider array of landfill types and waste categories. This includes significant adjustments to levy rates, encouraging businesses and households alike to reconsider their waste management strategies.”
Future Rates for the Waste Disposal Levy (per tonne)
| Facility Class |
Waste Types |
Current |
1 July 2024 |
1 July 2025 |
1 July 2026 |
1 July 2027 |
| Municipal landfill (Class 1) |
Mixed municipal wastes from residential, commercial, and industrial sources |
$50 |
$60 |
$65 |
$70 |
$75 |
| Construction and demolition fill (Class 2) |
Accepts solid waste from construction and demolition activities, including rubble, plasterboard, timber, and other materials |
$20 |
$30 |
$35 |
$40 |
$45 |
| Managed or controlled fill facility (Class 3 and 4) |
Contaminated but non-hazardous soils and other inert materials (e.g., rubble) |
$10 |
$10 |
$15 |
$15 |
$20 |
Source: Ministry for the Environment, April 2021. All amounts expressed in dollars per tonne.
Impact on Businesses
“Businesses must prepare for increased operational costs associated with waste disposal as these levy rates escalate,” advises Pravind.
“Proactive planning and strategic adjustments will be essential to mitigate financial impacts and uphold compliance with evolving regulatory standards.”
Total Utilities: Your Strategic Partner
Total Utilities offers expert guidance and customised solutions to help businesses navigate these regulatory changes effectively. Whether you need assistance in waste audit and management or insights into optimising recycling practices, our team is here to support your sustainability goals.
Contact Us
For personalised advice on preparing for the waste disposal levy changes or to explore our comprehensive waste management services, contact Total Utilities today.
by Chris Hargreaves | May 19, 2024 | Energy, News, Sustainable Business, Waste
Ready for cost-saving solutions? Hear directly from Joanne Gleeson, Office Support Manager at Rinnai NZ, as she shares how Total Utilities Management Group has streamlined contract negotiations and reduced costs for their utility needs since 2012.
‘Total Utilities has been assisting Rinnai NZ in negotiating our electricity/gas (both Natural and LPG) contracts since 2012.
Lately they have also assisted in re-negotiating our waste management contract and this is expected to greatly reduce costs going forward.
Service we receive from Chris Hargreaves, Linda MacIver, and all the team is efficient and professional. It simplifies the process of re-negotiating fresh contracts in an everchanging market. The fee structure Total Utilities offers has flexible options to suit.
The whole process is conducted in a most time manner, from the reminder of terminating contracts coming up, through to receiving the recommendations for renewal.
The contracts provided are clearly tabled and with detailed supporting narrative for us to consider and make the best decisions.
Total Utilities then liaises to assist in the changeover to the new provider and minimises any disruption to our business. The new contract signed by both parties is forwarded to me for reference.
I recommend their expertise to anyone looking to secure utilities contracts that offer the best fit for a company.’
Joanne Gleeson, Rinnai NZ
- Rinnai is a market leader in New Zealand, supplying high-quality home heating, heat pumps, water heating, and commercial heating and cooling products.
- Contact Total Utilities to find out how we can help your business cut utility costs and create a more sustainable future.
by Chris Hargreaves | Apr 23, 2024 | Energy, New Zealand Energy Certificates, News, Sustainable Business, Waste
Tired of navigating the murky waters of utility management alone? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, our experts have compiled your most frequently asked questions, and provided you with their expert insights and responses.
Whether you’re curious about energy market trends, utility contract terms and procurement, or sustainability options, we’ve got you covered! Join us as we unlock the mysteries of utility management and empower you with the information you need to make informed decisions for your business.
Utilities Management Questions
Should our new utility contract agreement be shorter or longer term?
The optimal term for your electricity, natural gas, LPG and trade waste procurement agreement depends on various factors, including market conditions and your business objectives. Longer-term contracts can provide price stability and potentially lower rates, while shorter-term agreements offer flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. Total Utilities offers a range of contract terms and provides recommendations tailored to your specific needs.
Should I let my utility contract expire and see what happens in the market?
It is generally not advisable to allow your utility contract to expire without securing a new agreement, as this can expose your business to pricing which may be significantly higher. Waste contracts are often very one sided in favour of the supplier. It is important to ensure that notice is given within the applicable timeframes should rollover clauses exist. Otherwise you could be stuck for a new term on conditions you don’t like. Instead, Total Utilities recommends exploring short-term contracts that provide pricing cover while allowing flexibility to adapt to market changes.
Why should we bother tracking utility costs if we’re in a fixed-term contract?
Monitoring utility usage and costs serves several crucial purposes:
- Identifying areas for potential savings
- Predicting future utility needs
- Improving operational processes and reducing overhead expenses
- Preventing wastage, including excessive utility usage
- Establishing valuable metrics for communicating utility usage throughout your organisation
- Making informed business decisions based on precise and accurate reporting.
Why should I use Total Utilities?
Total Utilities specialises in the energy and gas procurement industry, leveraging over two decades of experience. Completing around 300 market reviews each year, we closely monitor market movements, government policies, and industry trends to provide informed and strategic advice. Our range of services is designed to help businesses optimise their utility costs while ensuring reliable and efficient utility procurement.
What will it cost me?
We offer a range of fee options tailored to your business needs, including annual fees and fixed fees. These fee structures allow you to spread the cost of our services over the term of your contract. Additionally, we provide special pricing for bundled services, ensuring cost-effective solutions for your utility procurement needs.
Energy specific questions
What is happening in the gas market?
The gas market is experiencing a decline in production. Since the ban on offshore oil and gas exploration in 2016, investment in domestic gas infrastructure has dwindled. This is coupled with the sustained decline in production as fields exhaust their resources. According to forecasts by MBIE, gas production is expected to decrease by 30% by the year 2030. This trend has significant implications for businesses reliant on gas, as it may lead to changes in pricing and availability. Short term, market issues are not going away and it remains to be seen whether the new government will look at importing Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) or fast-tracking hydrogen production.
Why aren’t gas suppliers bidding as aggressively as before?
The decrease in gas production and the exit of gas retailers from the market have contributed to a shift in bidding dynamics. Gas suppliers may be more selective in their bidding strategies due to supply constraints and changing market conditions. Additionally, the demand for gas for electricity generation and other purposes further influences bidding behaviour.
Why are energy prices rising in a predominantly hydrogeneration-based market?
Despite being predominantly hydrogeneration-based, energy prices are influenced by the overall cost of generation, including gas and coal. When gas and coal generation is required to meet demand, it can drive up the market price of electricity. Additionally, factors such as emissions trading scheme (ETS) costs contribute to price increases.
Sustainability Questions
How do we reduce our usage and carbon emissions?
Total Utilities recommends a proactive approach to reducing energy usage and carbon emissions. This involves measuring current consumption levels, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing energy efficiency measures. Reduction measures can be prioritised from low cost high impact to high cost low impact. This allows your business to plan and budget for changes that need to be made, ensuring that over time you make improvements and become more commercially and environmentally sustainable.
Is solar a viable option?
The viability of solar energy depends on various factors, including your organisation’s internal rate of return (IRR) and sustainability goals. With current energy pricing, onsite solar installations typically offer a return on investment (ROI) within approximately seven years. However, successful implementation of solar projects also requires careful consideration of factors such as site suitability, financing options, and regulatory requirements, all of which we can advise upon.
Are renewable infrastructures being built?
Yes, there are ongoing efforts to develop renewable energy infrastructure, but progress is often hindered by regulatory challenges, environmental considerations, and supply chain issues. The process of commissioning new renewable generators can be lengthy, typically taking around nine years from planning to completion.
Market Dynamics Questions
When will electricity and gas markets stabilise?
Market stabilisation in the electricity sector is anticipated around 2027/2028, contingent upon significant infrastructure investments and regulatory developments. However, It is likely that natural gas markets will get worse before they get better, if they ever do. Since the ban on offshore exploration, much of our industry expertise has been relocated offshore. Bringing that knowledge back to NZ will be challenging unless the sector has a 10-20-year time horizon for exploration to continue.
Why are price hikes so big?
Factors such as declining gas production and limited electricity generation investment have contributed to significant price increases in the energy market. Additionally, regulatory changes and market dynamics impact pricing, leading to fluctuations and occasional spikes in prices.Waste to landfill pricing has been increasing as New Zealand has limited space in landfill sites. Also government policy has seen increases in the waste levy to incentivise more recycling and less waste ending up in landfill. If you aren’t recycling what you can, you are missing out.
Will utility prices drop?
Forecasts indicate a stabilisation of electricity prices beyond 2027, provided that investments in renewables reduce reliance on coal and gas. However, the timing and extent of price stabilisation depend on various factors, including policy developments, technological advancements, and market dynamics. With the government’s decarbonisation targets we are unlikely to see gas and waste prices falling. The most effective saving is to use less of your utilities where able.
How much can you save me?
Total Utilities works diligently to secure competitive pricing for our clients in a rising market. While we cannot guarantee specific savings, our strategic approach to procurement ensures that your current supplier must compete to retain your business. Additionally, we identify opportunities for cost savings, such as waste reduction, which can lead to significant financial benefits for your organisation.
Industry Insights Questions
How can I manage variable costs?
Total Utilities offers monthly forecasting and budgeting advice to help you manage variable costs effectively. By analysing historical usage data and market trends, we provide insights that enable you to forecast
by Chris Hargreaves | Apr 23, 2024 | Case Studies, Energy, Sustainable Business, Waste
Discover how Total Utilities’ innovative ‘Utility Insights’ service sparked remarkable transformations in four unique settings. From schools to industrial plants, food manufacturers to national retail chains, witness the journey of overcoming challenges and achieving success through proactive utility management.
High School Aces Utility Management Test with Total Utilities
Challenge:
A local high school’s rising utility costs were putting a strain on their budget. Additionally, waste handling expenses were escalating, further exacerbating financial pressures.
Solution:
Total Utilities stepped in with their Utility Insights service, offering a comprehensive solution to address the school’s utility management challenges. By collaborating closely with the school, Total Utilities provided proactive budgeting advice and identified opportunities for cost savings.
Result:
Through Total Utilities’ proactive approach, the high school achieved remarkable success, saving $40,000 annually (20%) in waste handling costs, offsetting rising expenses. Additionally, Total Utilities’ budgeting advice enabled planning for electricity and gas contract renewals, optimising budget and ensuring sustainability.
Overall, Total Utilities’ Utility Insights empowered the high school to overcome challenges, achieve savings, and pave the way for continued success.
Industrial Plant’s $70k Savings Story
Challenge:
Utility Insights reporting on electricity cost and consumption for this industrial client revealed an alarming discovery: over $70k of reactive charges per year were being incurred. These penalty charges resulted in a significant financial burden for the plant.
Solution:
Total Utilities stepped in to address the challenge. By implementing power factor correction equipment to improve electrical efficiency, we provided a proactive solution to mitigate the reactive charges. Additionally, our system ensured that if power factor charges were incurred again, the correction equipment could be serviced promptly, avoiding any unnecessary costs.
Result:
Through Total Utilities’ intervention, the industrial plant saw remarkable results. The installation of power factor correction equipment led to a substantial reduction in reactive charges, saving the plant over $70k per year. The plant can now effectively manage power factor charges and prevent any future financial losses, ensuring long-term cost savings and operational efficiency.
Total Utilities’ Data Dive for Food Manufacturer Improves Efficiency, Cuts Costs
Challenge:
A food manufacturing plant faced the challenge of understanding and optimising energy consumption across its processing plants. Without detailed production data, it was challenging to benchmark electricity and gas usage efficiency accurately.
Solution:
Total Utilities implemented a solution by adding production data tracking at each processing plant. This provided deeper analytics for benchmarking energy consumption efficiency. By integrating production data with utility usage, our system enabled the customer to clearly visualise how energy was used in relation to production outputs.
Result:
With Total Utilities’ solution in place, the Food Manufacturing Plant achieved remarkable results. The addition of production data allowed for the creation of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) at each plant, enabling better tracking and management of energy usage.
Furthermore, cross-site benchmarking within each business unit became possible, facilitating insights and improvements across the organisation. Through Total Utilities’ innovative approach, our client optimised energy efficiency, reduced costs, and paved the way for continued success in sustainable manufacturing.
Revolutionising Retail Efficiency for National Retail Chain
Challenge:
A national retail chain client with 45 locations across New Zealand faced the challenge of managing out-of-hours energy consumption effectively. Ten stores were identified as having significant energy usage outside of operating hours, resulting in excessive costs exceeding $140,000 per year.
Solution:
Total Utilities implemented a solution by resetting Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) controls to ensure energy usage aligned with operating hours. This proactive approach aimed to optimise energy consumption and reduce unnecessary costs associated with out-of-hours usage.
Result:
With Total Utilities’ intervention, our client achieved significant savings and efficiency improvements. By resetting HVAC controls, energy consumption during non-operational hours was minimised, leading to substantial cost reductions. This strategic approach not only helped the chain save money but also contributed to its sustainability efforts by reducing unnecessary energy waste.
by Chris Hargreaves | Mar 14, 2024 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste
Are you ready to take your business to the next level of sustainability and efficiency? Take a look at our game-changing waste reduction service, detailed in our brand new ‘Waste Reduction’ brochure.
Designed with your success in mind, our waste management service is here to help you transform the way you approach waste and sustainability while optimising your costs.
Experience Integrated Waste Reporting
Say goodbye to generic waste reporting and embrace a tailored approach with Total Utilities’ Integrated Waste Reporting. Our cutting-edge tools seamlessly integrate waste metrics with your electricity, natural gas, and LPG data through the Utility Insights platform.
This means you get a comprehensive overview of your utility consumption and spend, enabling you to make informed decisions that drive efficiency for your unique business needs.
We understand that true efficiency involves more than just numbers. Total Utilities offers hands-on waste solutions, starting with comprehensive waste audits that analyse your site and waste output.
But that’s not all – we also provide tailored waste education to foster better recycling habits within your organisation. By involving senior management, we ensure everyone is on board with sustainable waste management practices.
Strategic Solutions
At Total Utilities, we take a strategic approach to meet your waste management needs. Our waste review and waste procurement services involve detailed analysis of your current services.
Through expertly managed RFP bid processes, we secure competitive proposals tailored to your business’s unique requirements. Our solutions not only meet immediate needs but also propel sustainable practices for your future success.
Your Success is Our Priority
Optimising cost savings, meeting environmental standards, demonstrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), maximising recycling, mitigating risks, engaging your employees in an eco-friendly workplace – these are the key drivers that set Total Utilities apart.
We are committed to driving transparent reporting and enabling accurate carbon reporting, ensuring your business stands out as a leader in sustainability.
Real-World Success Stories
Discover real-world benefits through inspiring success stories featured in our brochure. From saving $105,000 annually for a leading hotel group to slashing costs by $27,842 for a prominent NZ bakery, Total Utilities consistently delivers remarkable results.
Our strategic waste management solutions not only drive financial savings but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.
Partner with Total Utilities
Ready to unlock the full potential of your waste reduction journey? Total Utilities invites your business to join us in revolutionising your waste management strategy.
Explore our new waste brochure or contact us to see how our transformative waste management solutions can help reshape your approach to sustainability.
