Job Summary:
A leading renewable energy developer is seeking an experienced and results-driven Manager of Transmission and Interconnection to join its team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for overseeing the transmission and interconnection aspects of renewable energy projects, ensuring successful integration into the power grid. You will manage the technical, regulatory, and contractual facets of interconnection agreements, transmission planning, and coordination with utilities, grid operators, and regulatory agencies. This role will directly contribute to the effective and timely delivery of renewable energy projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Transmission Planning & Strategy:
Develop and implement strategies to integrate renewable energy projects into the grid, ensuring optimal interconnection points and project layouts.
Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to assess transmission needs and ensure transmission solutions meet project timelines and regulatory requirements.
Evaluate transmission infrastructure requirements, including interconnection points and grid upgrades to accommodate renewable energy projects.
Interconnection Management:
Oversee the interconnection process for renewable energy projects, including submission of interconnection requests to utilities and transmission operators.
Manage negotiations and execution of interconnection agreements with utility companies and transmission system operators (TSOs).
Work with internal engineering and development teams to ensure interconnection designs comply with grid codes, utility requirements, and regulatory standards.
Stakeholder Coordination & Communication:
Act as the main point of contact for all transmission and interconnection-related matters with utilities, grid operators, and regulatory agencies.
Facilitate communication and coordination with stakeholders to resolve issues and ensure smooth transmission and interconnection processes.
Lead the management of relationships with external parties to ensure key project milestones are met on schedule.
Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:
Ensure all transmission and interconnection activities comply with local, state, and federal regulations, grid codes, and renewable energy policies.
Identify and mitigate risks related to transmission and interconnection processes, such as regulatory obstacles, permitting delays, and infrastructure limitations.
Stay up-to-date on energy regulations and transmission planning processes to guide internal teams and adapt strategies as necessary.
Project Management & Execution:
Lead cross-functional teams through interconnection processes, including site assessments, permitting, system impact studies, and grid integration.
Coordinate the development of required technical documentation, including feasibility studies and interconnection agreements.
Ensure interconnection timelines align with the overall project schedule, facilitating parallel development of transmission infrastructure.
Budgeting & Financial Oversight:
Develop and manage budgets for transmission and interconnection activities, ensuring cost-effective project execution.
Oversee preparation of cost estimates and ensure that projects stay within budget while meeting technical and regulatory requirements.
Manage financial oversight for transmission and interconnection contracts, ensuring proper allocation of funds.
Monitoring & Reporting:
Provide regular updates to senior management on the progress of transmission and interconnection projects, highlighting potential issues or delays.
Report on key interconnection milestones, challenges, and opportunities for process improvements.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Energy Management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
5+ years of experience in transmission and interconnection management within the renewable energy sector or related industries.
Strong understanding of transmission systems, grid operations, renewable energy technologies, and interconnection standards.
Knowledge of regulatory frameworks, grid codes, and permitting processes for renewable energy and transmission projects.
Proven ability to manage interconnection agreements, transmission planning, and regulatory compliance.
Excellent project management skills with experience in managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify and solve transmission and interconnection-related challenges.
Exceptional communication and negotiation skills when engaging with utilities, regulatory bodies, and external partners.
Proficiency in relevant software tools for project management and transmission modeling.
Preferred Qualifications:
Industry certifications (e.g., PMP, PE) or equivalent qualifications.
Experience with large-scale renewable energy projects, including solar, wind, or storage.
Familiarity with energy storage, smart grid technologies, and grid integration of renewable energy sources.
Experience managing projects across multiple regulatory environments.
