In a first-of-its-kind initiative for Western Australia, property developer Stockland has announced a landmark partnership with clean energy provider Plico to deliver solar and battery systems with Virtual Power Plant (VPP) capability to 55 new homes at its Nara community in Beaconsfield.
The development marks a major milestone for sustainable residential construction in the state, ensuring that homeowners will have access to reliable, affordable, and renewable energy from the day they move in.
Plico CEO Robbie Campbell said the collaboration represents a major step forward for both the housing and energy sectors.
“This is one of the most forward-thinking residential sustainability projects we’ve seen,” Campbell said.
“It gives homeowners immediate access to premium clean energy technology, removes upfront cost barriers, and seamlessly connects them to our VPP from day one.
“Together with Stockland, we’re proving that sustainability and simplicity can go hand-in-hand.”
Unlike traditional developments where homeowners arrange their own solar installation post-purchase, Stockland’s model embeds renewable energy infrastructure during construction.
This integration removes financial and logistical barriers and aligns with growing national efforts to support a transition to net-zero emissions.
Each Nara home includes a Plico-managed solar and battery system connected through the company’s digital service platform.
The systems link directly to Plico’s Virtual Power Plant, allowing households to generate, store, and share energy.
This setup lowers bills, helps residents earn credits or payments for exported power, and supports grid stability during periods of high demand.
Col Dutton, Stockland General Manager WA Development, said the partnership underscores the developer’s commitment to creating “future-ready” communities.
“This partnership aligns with our broader commitment to sustainability and innovation.
“Homes at Stockland Nara provide residents with the immediate benefits of clean energy – it’s not something residents need to consider later or pay extra for.
“We wanted to make it easier for people living at Nara, so there’s no need to spend time arranging multiple quotes, or worrying about VPP participation; it’s all built in.”
According to Plico, the systems at Nara will generate more clean energy than the homes are expected to consume, meaning surplus power can be exported to the grid.
Once a property settles, the complete solar and battery system becomes the homeowner’s asset, with warranties of up to 30 years and ongoing local support from Plico.
At the community level, the interconnected VPP will enable energy sharing between homes, providing collective benefits that improve grid reliability while reducing emissions.
“This partnership demonstrates what’s possible when developers and energy innovators work together with a long-term mindset,” Campbell added.
“It’s not just about solar panels, it’s about empowering families to take control of their energy future, save on power bills, and even be financially rewarded through participation in the Virtual Power Plant.”
Homes within the Stockland Nara development are expected to be completed between 2025 and 2027.
The model, if successful, could redefine clean energy integration in Australian residential projects and serve as a blueprint for future developments across the country.
