Your strategic partner in the distributed energy revolution
Supporting progress in DER since 2020.
Grids Energy is an independent energy consultancy run by Mitch O’Neill. It specialises in the intersection of DER technologies, commercialisation and policy, bringing new ideas and initiatives to life.
Since 2020, we've completed over 50 projects across Australia's energy transition, bridging the gap between energy innovation and implementation. Grids work with technology companies, industry bodies, and policymakers on projects ranging from commercialising DER technologies, industry reforms and shaping technical standards.
Contact
mitch@grids.dev
+61 425 652 325
Areas of Practice
Technology & Product Development
Grids bring hands-on software development experience to energy technology challenges, having built both consumer and enterprise-facing platforms that combine complex backend control systems with intuitive user interfaces.
Beyond individual product development, we provide technical stakeholder management for industry-wide technology reforms, translating between developers, policymakers, and market operators to ensure interoperability standards and technical frameworks actually work in practice. Grids has contributed to the implementation of CSIP-AUS and interoperability policy.
Market Strategy
Grids help energy companies and technology providers navigate Australia's evolving electricity markets, from designing products that unlock DER value streams to developing go-to-market strategies for new market participants.
Our market strategy work combines deep knowledge of wholesale and retail market mechanics with practical experience in regulatory frameworks, enabling clients to identify opportunities, assess commercial viability, and position their offerings for success. Examples of our work are the DER in market report and ARENA market integration trial summaries.
Regulatory & Policy Advice
Grids provide regulatory and policy advice to governments, industry bodies, and energy companies navigating Australia's complex energy regulatory environment. From drafting consultation papers and facilitating stakeholder workshops to supporting rule change submissions and regulatory reset processes, we help clients understand regulatory implications, shape emerging policy frameworks, and develop compliant strategies that position them for long-term success.
Grids has also submitted its own rule changes to reform contingency FCAS procurement and cost allocations: ERC0360, ERC0359.
Startup Commercialisation
Grids partners with energy technology startups to accelerate their commercialisation journey, providing strategic guidance on product-market fit, regulatory navigation, and go-to-market execution.
Currently working with Optigrid, CAPA Intelligence and UPowr, we help founders translate innovative technology into viable businesses by connecting them with the right customers, navigating Australia's energy regulatory landscape, and developing commercial strategies that resonate with utilities, governments, and energy users.