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.