Electrolux managing director for Australia and New Zealand, John Featherstone has turned the first sod in the construction of the company’s 6 Green Star energy rated Victorian distribution centre at Ravenhall in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

“The new 19,500 square metre distribution centre is a great example of our ongoing commitment to the future as we launch our Better Living Program for 2030,” he said.

The company’s goal is for all factories to reach zero carbon emissions by 2030 and to adopt the same approach and lead the operations in the same direction to be circular across the entire business.

In Australia and New Zealand, the motivation is to drive warehouse design towards sustainable outcomes, including the installation of solar panels.

“Through extensive use of solar electricity generated by an array of solar panels, the building will be capable of 80% electrical independence from the grid. This will see benefits such as our entire forklift fleet being powered by solar, in addition to many other sustainable options,” Featherstone said.

The initial development and construction stages will deliver a 6-star energy rating facility with future actions to be implemented.

The suburb of Ravenhall is approximately 25 minutes from the Melbourne CBD in the Melton Council LGA and is already well-serviced by road and rail connections. It is predicted to accommodate 40% of metropolitan Melbourne’s population growth over the next 40 years.

“Ravenhall signifies a long-term commitment by Electrolux to ensuring our operations in Victoria are able to support both our business growth and our sustainability commitment into the future,” Featherstone said.  

The facility is due for completion in late 2021 and will replace the current Heatherton facility in early 2022.

Feature image (L to R): Electrolux Home Products (EHP) operations manager for Victoria, David Mair, EHP director of operations for Australia and New Zealand, Derek Haley, Mayor Melton Council Councillor Kathy Majdlik and EHP managing director for Australia and New Zealand, John Featherstone.