Western Australia's energy landscape is shifting as local conglomerate Wesfarmers makes a strategic move into the renewable sector through its subsidiary Kleenheat.
From Gas to Green Energy
Kleenheat will this week launch an online marketplace connecting consumers with solar panel and battery installers, marking a significant pivot for the company traditionally focused on gas products. The platform, branded as Kleenheat Spark, represents the company's first major step into renewable energy after decades in the gas industry.
"This is our move out of gas and into renewables," confirmed Kleenheat chief executive Rick Newnham. "We've long been focused on reducing energy bills through gas, beginning with LPG and then entering the residential natural gas market twelve years ago."
Timing Aligns with Government Subsidy Surge
The marketplace launch coincides with massive State and Federal Government subsidies driving unprecedented investment in home battery systems like the Tesla Powerwall. Official data reveals more than 4,500 battery units have been installed since July, with nearly 20,000 households applying for the rebate scheme.
Mr Newnham revealed the company had been developing Kleenheat Spark before the government incentives were announced. "We expect these rebates will encourage more households to install batteries and add solar if they haven't already," he said.
Benefits for Households and Grid Stability
The initiative delivers multiple advantages for Western Australian consumers and the state's energy infrastructure. Households can significantly reduce electricity bills while becoming more self-sufficient in their power generation.
Mr Newnham emphasized the broader grid benefits, noting that "as we see greater penetration of renewables in the network, there's increased need for firming capacity. Household batteries play a crucial role in providing that stability."
While avoiding direct commentary on government-owned Synergy's monopoly position in power retail, Mr Newnham pointed to the positive impact of competition in WA's gas market, where increased choice has helped drive down prices for consumers.
