Sanaullah Ahmed

Since graduating from CQU, I have worked across the renewable and distributed energy sector in roles focused on solar PV, battery systems, and virtual power plant (VPP) operations. I began in technical support and engineering positions, designing PV and BESS systems, assisting with field operations, and troubleshooting performance issues. These early roles strengthened my skills in system design, diagnostics, and installer collaboration.

I then joined SwitchDin as a Customer Support Engineer, where I worked with remote diagnostics and DER orchestration platforms. This was my first exposure to VPP technology and helped build a foundation in distributed energy management. I later moved to Enphase Energy, supporting microinverters, MLPE, and BESS products. Working closely with installers and engineering teams gave me deeper insight into advanced distributed energy hardware and customer-focused problem-solving.

For the past two years, I have been part of the Customer Assets/VPP team at EnergyAustralia. My work involves monitoring and improving the performance of distributed energy assets across the VPP fleet. I analyse operational alerts, identify root causes, coordinate fixes with vendors, and support delivery teams working directly with customers. I also collaborate with a DERMS platform provider to refine optimisation logic and support enhancements that improve fleet stability, smart energy programs, and new VPP retail offerings.

Before studying at CQUniversity, I completed a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering in Pakistan and wanted to specialise further in renewable energy. I chose CQUniversity for its industry-relevant curriculum and mandatory internship, which helped me transition into Australia’s energy sector. My Master of Engineering degree has been essential in building the technical understanding needed for PV, BESS, DER orchestration, and VPP operations.