Keysborough solar power business Regen Energy may only be two years old, but it has big ambitions to trigger a ripple effect in the energy sector and fight climate change.
Co-founders Marisha and Andrew Malcolm started the business after being inspired by the Australian made documentary 2040, which explores how existing technologies could reverse the effects of global warming.
Having already run a successful solar installation contracting business for over a decade, the husband-and wife team felt they were in a unique position to bridge a knowledge gap in the industry.
“That night, after watching the film, we looked up more than 50 solar websites and what we realised was not one was talking about the bigger picture and climate action,” Ms Malcolm said.
“Most companies know they should have solar, whether it’s to cut energy costs or respond to customer expectations. But these companies were not having the conversation with their clients about what we considered the most important benefit of installing solar – reducing carbon emissions.”
Regen Energy designs, supplies, installs and commissions solar power systems in the commercial and industrial sector.
Ms Malcolm said interest was growing in solar power energy and the sector was teeming with activity. “Our challenge is competing in an oversaturated market and communicating how we are different. There is a lot of greenwashing at the moment and people are starting to see through this.”
Regen Energy’s commitment to climate change goes beyond its service offering. The business has committed to raising $100,000 for HalfCut, a charity focused on saving the Daintree Rainforest, over seven years. Regen Energy has a number of installation teams led by long standing A-Grade electricians from their contracting business, and its office crew has expanded to five to support the growth of the retail division.
“As a company set in the heart of the City of Greater Dandenong, we are pleased to actively participate in its business community.”
In the last six months, Regen Energy has installed solar panels on 11 commercial sites in the area.
The family-owned business is also passionate about sharing knowledge and bringing the next generation on its journey, educating school teachers and students about renewable energy and its positive impacts on the environment.
Regen Energy pledges to plant 2,000 trees on behalf of each school that introduces renewable energy. Visit website regenenergy.com.au
