Renewables Project Development Director

Summary

The Renewable Project Development Director is responsible for origination and development of utility scale renewable energy projects in different stages of development through commercial operation, in support of NYPA’s strategies and New York State targets.

The Director will act as a strategic market leader driving origination, innovation, and driving growth through strategic climate change investments for NYPA. In addition to leading renewables growth for NYPA, they will act as an industry change agent supporting grid integration, energy storage policies, and overall policy and regulation shifts to support electrification and the changing energy system within New York and how it collaborates with other states/RTO/ISOs. Projects span across various technologies and applications including but not limited to renewable energy, energy storage and transmission.

Responsibilities include internal and external stakeholder management, multi-functional collaborations such as with technical functions to develop solutions, and others for negotiations with external collaborators.

The Project Development Director should have a strong understanding of the Renewable Project Development Process, including land leases or easement agreements, permitting and interconnection processes, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Candidates with technical or engineering education and/or experience will be preferred. 

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Responsibilities

• Lead development activities in early, mid, and late stages of large-scale renewable energy projects.
• Drive origination and identify project opportunities, including greenfield development, M&A, and other potential partnerships, to support project pipeline growth.
• Assess the feasibility of pipeline projects, considering technical, financial, and regulatory aspects, and ensure alignment with policy and NYPA's strategy, while identifying key risks.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including real estate, engineering, permitting, legal, finance, and other stakeholders, to mature projects from early to late-stage development, including preparing bids/proposals.
• Lead negotiations of key project and partnership contracts to maximize project value.
• Oversee and guide the development process, ensuring adherence to project timelines and milestones.
• Participate in industry events, trainings, and conferences as needed to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify innovative solutions and strategies for project development and implementation.
• Provide strategic insights and recommendations to senior management based on market analysis and project assessments.
• Foster relationships with industry leaders, developers, regulators, and other key stakeholders to enhance NYPA's position in the renewable energy sector.
• Stay updated with industry advancements, regulatory changes, and market trends to drive continuous improvement and innovation within project development practices.
   

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Advanced analytical abilities to think through complex problems and make strategic decisions.
• Expertise in leading and supporting team members in the development of projects across all stages, from origination to implementation.
• Excellent written, oral, and research skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and findings.
• Strong ability to work independently on assignments, prioritize tasks, and manage deadlines, while also providing guidance and mentorship to team members.
• Exceptional organization and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and external organizations from diverse backgrounds.
• In-depth knowledge of the NYISO market, broader energy industry, and regulatory landscape.
• Proficiency in financial analysis and understanding of business, financial, project management, and technical concepts.
• Strategic understanding of New York's clean energy goals, policies, and regulations, including the Clean Energy Standard, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), and the Accelerated Renewable Energy Growth and Community Benefit Act.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, including the ability to communicate clear objectives, prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and motivate an interdisciplinary team.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
• Ability to interface and effectively communicate with senior management, stakeholders, and external parties.
• Knowledge of procurement processes to acquire necessary resources for project identification and development.
• Proven track record of successfully negotiating key project and partnership contracts.
• Actively stays updated with industry advancements, regulatory changes, and market trends to drive continuous improvement and innovation within project development practices.
   

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum 10 years of related experience with at least 7 years of experience in energy infrastructure projects preferred.
• Utility or energy experience required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience developing or executing renewable generation and/or energy storage projects is preferred.
• Experience interfacing with transmission organizations (NYISO and TOs) for interconnection related issues and familiarity with energy markets is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Approximately 20% travel within NY State.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Ability to attend meetings/events outside of normal business hours.