Embedded Network Scenarios: Where It Works, Where It Doesn’t – A Feasibility Perspective

Embedded Networks (ENs) are increasingly considered in multi-tenant property developments, from high-rise apartments and retirement villages to shopping centres and marinas. They provide a centralised system for distributing electricity across a site, offering potential benefits such as operational efficiency, cost savings, and opportunities for integrating renewable energy.

However, embedded networks are not universally suitable. While some developments can realise significant advantages, others may face financial, operational, or regulatory challenges. The key to making an informed decision is a thorough feasibility study, which assesses whether an embedded network is viable, feasible, and strategically appropriate for the site’s long-term success.

At ENM Solutions, our Feasibility Assessment is designed to support developers, embedded network owners, and operators in making confident, evidence-based decisions.

Why a Feasibility Assessment Matters

A feasibility study goes far beyond a simple cost estimate. It is a comprehensive appraisal that considers all factors affecting the success of an embedded network, including:

Energy usage and patterns – Analysing when, where, and how electricity is consumed across the site.
Infrastructure requirements – Determining cabling, switchgear, metering, and future-ready upgrades, including EV charging.
Regulatory compliance – Ensuring full adherence to the National Electricity Rules (NER), National Energy Retail Law, and Australian Energy Regulator (AER) exemptions where required.
Financial modelling and sustainability – Estimating short- and long-term costs, savings, potential revenue streams, and assessing risks such as market volatility and bad debts.

Modern embedded networks may also incorporate:

Electric heat pump solutions
Solar panel and battery storage
Energy management systems
Energy efficiency upgrades, such as LED lighting

By combining technical, financial, and regulatory analysis, ENM Solutions delivers a robust business case, outlining the best way forward or identifying where an embedded network may not be suitable.

Scenarios Where Embedded Networks Can Be Beneficial

Embedded networks can provide substantial value in developments that align with their strengths, provided a thorough feasibility assessment supports implementation. Some examples include:

1. Large Residential Apartment Complexes

High-density buildings with hundreds of units can benefit from:

Economies of scale that lower per-unit energy costs
Centralised infrastructure management, simplifying maintenance
Bulk electricity purchasing, offering competitive rates

Example: A 200-unit residential tower may purchase electricity as a single customer, potentially reducing costs for residents while providing reliable service.

2. Retirement Villages and Aged Care Communities

Stable occupancy and consistent energy demand make embedded networks viable:

Centralised facilities (laundry, cafeterias, medical equipment) provide steady base loads
Transparent billing allows residents to monitor and control costs
Opportunities to integrate renewable energy, such as solar panels

Outcome: Reliable, uninterrupted energy supply enhances residents’ quality of life while supporting sustainability objectives.

3. Commercial and Mixed-Use Developments

Developments with predictable energy usage patterns can benefit from:

Aggregated bulk purchasing by multiple tenants
Centralised control for operational efficiency
Smart energy technologies, such as advanced metering and demand-response systems

Outcome: Reduced operating costs and more efficient energy management for landlords and tenants.

4. Caravan Parks and Holiday Villages

Shared facilities and demarcated sites can leverage embedded networks to:

Simplify billing for short-term and long-term stays
Reduce duplicate infrastructure through a single point of connection
Integrate renewable energy solutions for shared facilities

Outcome: Efficient management of variable occupancy levels while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

How ENM Solutions Provides Value

ENM Solutions offers feasibility studies that are comprehensive, thorough, and actionable:

Energy modelling – Predicting consumption patterns and future growth
Financial analysis – Estimating installation costs, operating expenses, and projected savings
Regulatory compliance audits – Ensuring alignment with AEMO, NER, Retail Law, and consumer protections

This holistic approach equips embedded network operators, developers, strata and property managers with the clarity to make an informed decision.

Long-Term Benefits of a Well-Executed Embedded Network

When implemented correctly, embedded networks can deliver enduring advantages:

Lower electricity costs for tenants and occupants
Centralised, manageable infrastructure
Integration of consumer energy resources, including solar and battery storage
Enhanced sustainability and reduced environmental impact
Future-proofed infrastructure capable of supporting emerging technologies such as EV charging

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Conclusion

Embedded networks with appropriately designed financial models to distribute on-site solar power generation continue to prove a compelling opportunity, delivering financial benefits to both owners and residents.

ENM Solutions collaborates with developers, owners, and operators to ensure that embedded networks meet today’s energy needs while supporting future innovations. By understanding where embedded networks succeed and where they may fail, we help clients establish robust, future-proofed energy solutions that deliver value for both tenants and property owners.