Sojitz enters Australian energy-as-a-service sector

Sojitz Corporation has entered Australia’s energy conservation market with its acquisition of Ellis Air Group, an air conditioning and mechanical services company.

The move will allow Sojitz to expand into the energy-as-a-service sector as Australia ramps up its adoption of energy-efficient solutions. Sojitz is a long-time investor in Australia, with investments in renewables, green hydrogen, recycling and healthcare.

Air conditioning systems for green buildings

Ellis Air specialises in designing, constructing, installing and maintaining energy-efficient air conditioning systems. It services customers in the commercial sector, including offices, shopping centres, hospitals, tunnels and data centres.

Australia is aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43% from 2005 levels by 2030 and to net zero by 2050. The Australian Government has committed A$24.9 billion over this decade to deliver climate change and energy transformation priorities. Australian state governments have also announced major carbon emission reduction targets and related roadmaps.

As part of Australia’s transition to net zero, buildings in Australia must meet high environmental performance standards. There is now growing awareness of and demand for energy-saving air conditioning solutions.

Sojitz’s expansion into the energy-as-a-service sector will leverage Ellis Air’s digital services. These services merge information modelling, smart data, predictive maintenance and lifecycle management to tailor solutions to customers’ energy consumption needs.

Sojitz will provide financial support to develop the energy-as-a-service business.

How Austrade helped

Australia was the third most attractive destination for foreign direct investment into renewable energy in 2022. Austrade continues to support Australia’s transition to net zero by assisting companies such as Sojitz to diversify their investments into environmental, social and corporate governance areas.

Find out more about Go Green with Australia.