Solar Sidekicks Podcast
Solar Sidekicks is the go-to podcast for all things solar, serving up essential insights with a friendly, down-to-earth vibe. Hosted by industry professional Pat Southwell and his co-host Lauren Ciconte, each episode explores technical topics, industry regulations, and the real-world challenges faced by solar installers across Australia.
Together they share practical knowledge from the field, tackle important issues affecting the industry, and stand up for what’s right by helping voices be heard on topics that can hit solar installers hard. They also highlight some of the great people working in the industry and help listeners stay across the constant changes in this fast-evolving sector.
Whether you’re a solar installer, apprentice, or simply interested in solar, Solar Sidekicks keeps you informed, connected, and up to date with what’s happening in the industry.
Solar Sidekicks Podcast
S2E19 – Tom Gay | Origin Energy
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Batteries, VPPs & the Future of Home Electrification
This week on Solar Sidekicks, we're deep-diving into the world of virtual power plants (VPPs), dynamic energy systems, and home electrification with Tom Gay, Sales Manager at Origin Energy.
Recorded in the heart of Melbourne at Origin HQ, Pat and Lauren sit down with Tom to unpack how battery storage, VPPs, and evolving consumer habits are reshaping the energy landscape — from the early days of disco-light signal rooms (yep, really) to AI-powered energy orchestration.
We talk:
• VPP myths vs. reality
• Battery plan transparency and customer control
• Origin’s expanding suite of battery-friendly retail plans
• Community batteries, EV charging, and hot water load shifting
• What’s next in the energy transition — and Origin’s role in it
A smart, fun, and future-focused convo — and one of our most informative episodes to date.