Unlocking Long-Term Value at Johnson Court Through Embedded Network Innovation

Background

Johnson Court is a mixed-use strata development in Fremantle, WA, comprising 111 residential units and 8 commercial tenancies. Originally constructed more than 40 years ago, the site was operating under a multi-master metering configuration, where each tenancy held its own electricity account and dealt independently with Synergy, WA’s state-owned retailer. This legacy system resulted in significant infrastructure inefficiencies, compliance risks, and limited control over energy usage and costs.

With outdated electrical infrastructure, limited visibility across the site’s energy use, and growing maintenance burdens, the owners sought to modernise and centralise energy management. EnergyTec was appointed to lead the project in collaboration with strata management company ESM Strata.

The Challenge

The aging infrastructure posed a serious risk of electrical failure and did not meet current regulatory and safety standards. Tenants were incurring high daily supply charges through individual accounts, and the lack of co-ordination made site-wide energy optimisation impossible. In addition, metering and maintenance issues created inconsistencies in service, billing, and tenant experience.

The council of owners and strata management needed a cost-effective, future-ready solution that would:

·  Modernise outdated infrastructure without imposing special levies.

·  Centralise energy billing and management.

·  Improve tenant experience and transparency.

·  Ensure compliance with current and future embedded network regulations.

·  Enable future deployment of solar and EV infrastructure.

The Solution

EnergyTec conducted a detailed feasibility study and financial modelling to assess the viability of an embedded network conversion. A custom project finance model was approved, allowing the scheme to fund the upgrade through energy cost savings without special levies.

To ensure compliance, EnergyTec developed a legal guide, engaged with regulators, and drafted custom by-laws. The project included major infrastructure upgrades, replacing switchboards, installing approved meters, and implementing an automated meter reading (AMR) system.

A centralised retailer agreement was secured, simplifying billing and support for residents while delivering lower energy rates and greater transparency.

A Platform for Future Sustainability

The embedded network model has not only addressed current risks and inefficiencies but also created a platform for future innovation. With the infrastructure now aligned to upcoming regulatory requirements, including the proposed 2026 Embedded Network Code of Practice, Johnson Court is future-proofed for renewable energy integration, community battery storage, and net-zero participation.