In profile: Rob Leopardi, Secrets by the Sea

Secrets by the Sea is one of more than 900 small businesses that will share in $31 million worth of grants to help reduce power bills, in round 2 of the $154 million Economic Recovery Fund.

Small business success often begins with passion, and for Robert Leopardi, that passion is seafood.

A lifelong Henley Beach resident with a love for fishing, Robert transformed his passion into a thriving seafood restaurant.

His business was among the successful applicants for the Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant, receiving nearly $15,000 to install solar panels with battery storage.

With this upgrade, Robert estimates his business will now save nearly $15,000 in power bills annually.

“The grant and the solar and battery installation have been a game changer for us. This is saving us approximately $14,880 per year on our electricity bills, which is a significant boost to our bottom line”, he says.

“Electricity costs are a major pressure point for restaurants, and this solution has given us more control over our expenses.

“The ability to store and use our own solar power means we’re less exposed to rising energy prices, and we’ve already seen a noticeable reduction in our monthly bills.”