In an industry-first initiative, Stockland and Australian clean energy provider, Plico, have announced a landmark partnership. As the first development of its kind in the state, the collaboration will deliver solar and battery systems with Virtual Power Plant (VPP) capability to 55 new homes at Stockland’s Nara community in Beaconsfield, Western Australia.

The initiative ensures homeowners will have access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy from the moment they move in, marking a significant milestone for sustainable residential development in Australia. 

Plico CEO Robbie Campbell says the collaboration represents a major step forward for the housing and energy sectors.

“This is one of the most forward-thinking residential sustainability projects we’ve seen. 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.” 

Rather than leaving solar and battery installation to homeowners post-purchase, Stockland’s model integrates renewable systems as standard, simplifying the process and removing financial and logistical barriers. 

Each Nara home comes with a fully installed Plico solar and battery system managed and maintained through Plico’s digital service platform. The systems connect directly to the Plico Virtual Power Plant, allowing households to generate, store, and share energy, lowering bills, earning credits or payment for exported power and supporting grid stability during peak demand. 

Col Dutton, Stockland General Manager, WA Development says the partnership reflects Stockland’s commitment to building 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.” 

The Plico systems at Nara will generate more energy than the homes are expected to consume, with excess power exported back to the grid. Residents will have greater energy independence, significantly reducing electricity costs compared to grid-only supply, while also earning financial rewards through Plico’s VPP. Once the home settles, the solar and battery system becomes the homeowner’s asset, backed by warranties of up to 30 years and Plico’s ongoing local support. 

At a network level, the connected VPP enables residents to share stored energy when demand peaks, helping stabilise the Western Australian electricity grid while reducing emissions. 

The partnership demonstrates how property developers and clean energy providers can work together to make sustainability standard, not a premium feature. 

“This partnership demonstrates what’s possible when developers and energy innovators work together with a long-term mindset,” Mr Campbell adds. “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.” 

By integrating renewable energy infrastructure into construction, Stockland and Plico are redefining what modern, sustainable housing looks like where every roof is an energy asset and every home contributes to a cleaner, smarter grid. 

Homes in the Nara development will be completed and handed over between 2025 and 2027, with the model expected to set a precedent for future projects across Australia. 

If you'd like an obligation-free quote for a solar + battery or solar battery system, reach out to the switched-on Plico team on 1300 175 426.

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