Energy efficiency is becoming an increasingly important focus for businesses – not only for reducing environmental impact and carbon footprints but also for minimising expenses and creating new income opportunities.

According to Choice Energy, electricity prices in Australia almost doubled between 2021 and 2025, driven by market volatility, global disruptions and changes to domestic energy policy. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has forecast that wholesale electricity prices will remain elevated throughout 2025, with increases anticipated across all regions. While the ongoing transition to renewable energy is expected to deliver greater stability over time, businesses are being urged to prepare for higher short-term costs.

Combined with growing consumer demand for sustainable practices – particularly in the hospitality sector – it has never been more important for businesses to adopt greener solutions. With increased government rebates available for energy-efficient upgrades, now is the perfect time to explore smarter ways of managing energy use.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has introduced an effective solution to the Australian market: the Q-ton hot water heat pump. The Q-ton provides a reliable, low-maintenance hot water solution that significantly reduces energy consumption and operating costs, while slashing CO₂ emissions by up to 76% compared with traditional gas boilers and up to 74% compared with electric systems.

Ideal for businesses in the food, beverage and hospitality industries, the Q-ton delivers superior energy efficiency, reduced operating costs and strong sustainability outcomes.

Beyond lowering energy bills and emissions, the Q-ton is eligible for thousands of dollars in rebates through Victoria’s Energy Upgrades (VEU) Program and NSW’s Energy Saver Scheme (ESS). By replacing inefficient hot water systems such as gas boilers or electric heaters, NSW or VIC based businesses can combine immediate energy savings with generous government incentives. These rebates can significantly reduce upfront costs and shorten the payback period even further – making Q-ton not only an environmentally responsible upgrade but also a smart financial one.

Using patented compressor technology and CO₂ as a natural refrigerant, the Q-ton absorbs heat from the air and transfers this heat to water. This process instantly heats water to between 60°C and 90°C, delivering sanitary-grade hot water and space heating solutions for commercial operations.

Its ability to consistently deliver up to 90°C hot water, even in temperatures as low as -25°C makes the Q-ton ideal for bottling, cleaning and sterilisation – while also saving on water, energy and costs.

The Q-ton’s compact, flexible design allows it to be seamlessly retrofitted into existing facilities or specified for new builds. Units can be installed individually or in tandem – with up to 16 units producing between 3,000 and 100,000 litres of sanitary-grade hot water daily. Integration with building management systems also enables advanced monitoring.

Already installed in more than 70 businesses – including breweries, wineries, distilleries and hotels – the Q-ton is a proven solution helping Australian companies cut costs and emissions with innovative technology.

Learn more about how the Q-ton can support your sustainability goals, reduce your carbon footprint and save your business money today.

Andy Young

Andy joined Intermedia as Editor of The Shout in 2015, writing news on a daily basis and also writing features for National Liquor News. Now Managing Editor of both The Shout and Bars and Clubs.