News

A new partnership between AMS and energy broker Zembl is helping members take a fresh look at their energy costs.

With the Australian macadamia industry facing sustained pressure on profitability, rising operating costs and a challenging business environment, AMS is focused on identifying practical opportunities that can help members reduce costs, improve efficiency and strengthen the long-term sustainability of their businesses.

Energy is a significant cost across the macadamia supply chain. Irrigation pumps, dehusking, drying, cracking, sorting and cold storage can all contribute to substantial electricity use, yet energy contracts and tariffs can be difficult and time-consuming to review.

Businesses that allow energy contracts to roll over without review can face significant increases in their rates, while others may be paying more than necessary because their network tariffs do not reflect the way they use energy.

Through the new partnership, AMS members can access Zembl's energy review services, with support tailored to the size and energy needs of their business.

Support for small businesses

As a general guide, Zembl classifies a small business as one spending less than approximately $3,000 per month on electricity or using less than 100,000 kWh per year.

Zembl's Energy Experts can compare a business's current energy plan with competitive offers from its panel of retailers during a phone consultation.

There is no cost for the comparison and no obligation to switch. In June 2026, 92% of businesses Zembl spoke to achieved savings through an energy review.*

Support for larger businesses

For larger growers, processors and other businesses, Zembl can undertake a competitive energy procurement process based on the organisation's energy requirements.

Its service can also include ongoing monitoring of energy use, tariff reviews and identification of potential efficiency opportunities during the contract term.

In one example, Zembl reviewed the energy needs of Burnfarmers Dairy Farm near Deniliquin, NSW, and secured a more competitive energy contract, delivering estimated savings of $119,000 over the contract term.**

Network tariff reviews can also identify whether a business is on the most appropriate tariff for its usage patterns. Between 1 February and 31 August 2026, these reviews saved Zembl customers an average of $8,232.***

Book a free energy review

AMS members interested in reviewing their business energy costs can visit Zembl's dedicated Australian Macadamia Society page to leave their details and arrange a free energy review.

Businesses that compare and switch to a new small business energy plan through Zembl between 1 October and 30 November 2026 will also go into the draw to win a $5,000 Luxury Escapes Gift Card.^

_{* Based on Zembl small business energy review data, June 2026.}

_{** Estimated contract-term savings based on comparing Burnfarmers Dairy Farm's previous and new energy rates using historical consumption. Case study savings are estimates only. Actual savings may vary. Past savings are not a guarantee of future outcomes.}

_{*** Based on Zembl network tariff review data, 1 February to 31 August 2026.}

_{^ Switch to a new small business energy plan through Zembl between 1 October and 30 November 2026 to enter the draw. Open to Australian small businesses with an ABN in NSW, ACT, VIC, SA and QLD.}