SMEs to save thousands on power bills through expanded solar programSmall businesses across the country could soon save thousands on their power bills through the expansion of a national solar program. Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen will use an address to the National Press Club on Wednesday to announce an expansion of the small-scale renewable energy scheme. “It means more regional and remote areas will have access to clean, reliable and affordable solar energy,” the minister will say. Independent retailers could save roughly $50,000 a year on power by installing solar. The minister is expected to say that rule changes, combined with the government’s scheme expansion, will significantly lower power costs for businesses.