Penske Energy Solutions has rapidly become a cornerstone of Penske’s diversified portfolio, addressing the growing demand for sustainable and reliable energy infrastructure. With a strong focus on renewable energy, battery storage, and alternative fuels, Penske Energy Solutions is playing a critical role in shaping Australia’s energy future. In an exclusive conversation, Hamish Christie-Johnston, Managing Director of Penske Australia and New Zealand, shared insights into the company’s strategic vision and commitment to sustainability.
Leading the Energy Transition
As the world transitions away from traditional fossil fuels, Penske Energy Solutions is at the forefront of delivering innovative power solutions. “You can imagine a business like ours, which is diesel-centric, would be doing itself a disservice if we ignored the energy transition,” Christie-Johnston noted. “We’re leaning into it because it’s not just the right thing to do—it’s what our customers expect.”
Penske’s energy division is deeply involved in various projects, from large-scale battery energy storage systems to renewable power solutions. One of the standout initiatives is its partnership with Energy Queensland, where Penske is delivering hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of community battery storage. “We’re not just talking about the future; we’re actively building it,” Christie-Johnston emphasised.
Innovating with Alternative Fuels
While hydrogen and alternative fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) are gaining traction, Christie-Johnston remains pragmatic about their challenges. “Hydrogen is promising, but the infrastructure and supply chains aren’t there yet. We’ve supplied hybrid gas-fired power stations that can switch to hydrogen when the supply becomes viable,” he explained.
Regarding HVO, Christie-Johnston pointed out the limitations due to feedstock availability. “HVO has potential, but there’s only so much waste oil available to produce it. Right now, most of the HVO ends up in markets like Europe where there’s a higher carbon price, making it economically viable,” he said.
Powering Data Centres and Critical Infrastructure
Another area where Penske Energy Solutions is making significant strides is in powering data centres and critical infrastructure. “Last year, we delivered 500 megawatts of standby power to data centres, and this year, that number will rise to 800 megawatts,” Christie-Johnston revealed. “Next year, we’re aiming for over 1.2 gigawatts—that’s about 4% of Australia’s entire grid.”
These backup power systems are essential, especially as more businesses and services move into the cloud. Penske’s solutions ensure that even during grid outages, data centres can maintain operations without disruption. “With the rise of AI and cloud computing, the demand for reliable power has never been higher,” Christie-Johnston noted.
Advising Customers Through the Transition
Navigating the complexities of the energy transition can be daunting for many businesses, but Penske sees itself as a trusted adviser in this space. “Our role isn’t just to sell equipment—it’s to help our customers make informed decisions,” Christie-Johnston said. “Whether it’s choosing between battery storage, gas peaking plants, or exploring hydrogen, we’re there to guide them through the process.”
Penske’s involvement with industry leaders and governmental agencies also provides a unique advantage. Christie-Johnston highlighted an upcoming meeting with the CEO of the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) to discuss grid stability and future energy needs. “We’re not just suppliers; we’re partners in shaping Australia’s energy landscape,” he stressed.
A Sustainable Future Ahead
Penske Energy Solutions’ commitment to sustainability isn’t just about staying competitive—it’s about leading the way. “We see ourselves as trusted advisers, helping customers navigate what can be a complex roadmap,” Christie-Johnston concluded. “Whether it’s battery storage, renewable energy, or alternative fuels, we’re focused on delivering solutions that meet today’s needs while planning for tomorrow’s challenges.”
With its comprehensive approach to energy solutions and a strong focus on sustainability, Penske is poised to play a pivotal role in Australia’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
