Essential Solar’s Sam Valenti on Batteries, VPPs, and How to Avoid Solar Regret
In an industry crowded with short-lived companies and cheap deals, Essential Solar has become a standout name in Melbourne’s solar scene. Founded in 2012, the company is led by Sam Valenti, who brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to doing things right—from premium solar gear to customer-focused after-sales support. In this conversation, Sam shares practical advice on solar and batteries, explains the new opportunities from Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), and breaks down the risks of going cheap.
Not All Solar Is Equal: Cheap Gear Comes at a Cost
According to Sam, one of the biggest traps consumers fall into is chasing the lowest quote. While budget systems may look appealing, they often lead to long delays in repairs, no local support, and in some cases, installers that vanish altogether. He’s seen homeowners wait over six months for a replacement inverter, simply because the brand had no parts in Australia. His advice? Stick to trusted names like Fronius, SolarEdge, Enphase, and BYD—brands with a proven track record and strong local support networks.
Is Now the Time to Buy a Battery?
Battery uptake is growing rapidly, and Sam expects this trend to accelerate further with the introduction of the new federal battery rebate. For households who can afford it, he recommends getting a system that is expandable. Essential Solar’s most popular combo is BYD with a Fronius inverter—well-supported, reliable, and scalable. Sam warns against choosing a cheap battery just to access the rebate, as these products often come with poor support and short lifespans. “If the battery fails and the company’s gone,” he says, “you’ve wasted your one chance at a rebate.”
Backup Isn’t Always Included—Ask the Right Questions
One of the most common misunderstandings Sam encounters is around battery backup. Many consumers assume that backup power comes standard with any battery, but this isn’t the case. Some systems provide full backup, others just a single powerpoint and a light. Sam urges homeowners to ask specifically what’s included and be clear about which appliances they want to keep running during a blackout. Not all inverters or batteries are designed to deliver whole-of-house backup without extra components.
How VPPs Turn Your Battery Into an Income Stream
Virtual Power Plants are changing how solar batteries are used. Sam explains that with VPPs like Amber, you can reserve half of your battery for your own use and allow the VPP to control the rest—selling energy back to the grid when prices are high. This can generate real returns, sometimes earning you $10 per kilowatt-hour. The system is automated, and you don’t need to sit around monitoring the market. Just set your preferences and let the VPP do the rest.
Why Site Inspections Matter More Than Ever
Essential Solar insists on site inspections or thorough pre-install assessments. This avoids nasty surprises—like brittle roof tiles, unsuitable switchboards, or tricky inverter placements—on installation day. Sam says that cheaper companies often skip this step and make up the cost later with expensive “day-of-install” surprises. “We’d rather be accurate upfront than squeeze customers later,” he says. “It’s about doing the right thing, not just closing a sale.”
Common Solar Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Sam has seen it all—from systems that were never connected to the grid to installations missing compliance documents and user manuals. Some customers discover years later that their solar never worked or was never eligible for a feed-in tariff. To avoid this, Sam advises asking for detailed paperwork, warranties, and a system diagram. Essential Solar even provides QR-coded user manuals accessible from your switchboard—so everything is stored and easy to retrieve.
Off-Grid Systems: Yes, They Can Be Done
Although it’s not their core focus, Essential Solar does offer off-grid solutions, primarily using Victron, Selectronic, or newer systems like Sigenergy. These setups are typically for rural or edge-of-grid properties, and they’re not cheap. But for the right client with clear expectations, Sam says it’s absolutely possible—and Essential Solar has already completed large off-grid systems with up to 144 kWh of storage.
EV Charging and Vehicle-to-Grid: The Next Big Thing
Electric vehicles are driving new demand for solar system expansion. Sam believes Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology will become a major game-changer in the coming years. Already, some customers are using their EVs as giant mobile batteries—charging at work during the day and discharging into their home at night. It’s not for everyone just yet, but the infrastructure is coming fast, and Sam’s team is ready.
Warranties That Actually Mean Something
Panels now often come with 25- to 30-year warranties, and Essential Solar backs its workmanship with a full 10-year guarantee. They only work with manufacturers who will stand behind their products. That way, even if something goes wrong years down the track, the customer isn’t left out in the cold.
Sam Valenti’s Top Advice for Solar Buyers
Sam shares his key checklist for anyone considering solar:
Don’t jump at the first deal.
Always ask for a site inspection or full pre-design.
Choose long-term companies with a physical location.
Understand your usage—don’t oversize or undersize.
Make sure you’re covered for warranties, support, and documentation.
The most important piece of advice? Buy right the first time. “You’re not just buying gear,” Sam says. “You’re buying peace of mind.”
Conclusion: What Makes Essential Solar Different
What sets Essential Solar apart? According to Sam, it’s simple: performance, quality, and reliability. From in-house engineers and genuine site inspections to premium battery and solar options, the company invests in people, processes, and long-term customer support. With over 6,500 installs across Melbourne, Essential Solar is proving that doing things properly—not cheaply—is the smarter choice.
Whether you’re looking at solar for your home, planning to add a battery, or thinking about off-grid or EV integration, Essential Solar has the experience and local knowledge to deliver real, lasting value.
