Job Description
Pangea Talent Solutions has been retained by a PE-owned investment and development platform in the renewable energy market to find them a Grid Manager/Director, who will oversee their grid connection and integration activities globally during the development and construction phases of utility-scale solar PV and BESS projects. They have a 3GW pipeline of projects across all phases of development, and have ambitions to become a global IPP.
This role ensures that their projects meet regulatory requirements, technical specifications, and timelines for grid interconnection. The Grid Manager/Director will collaborate with internal teams, utilities, and transmission operators to secure grid access and optimise grid-related infrastructure for renewable energy projects to maintain compliance, reliability, and profitability. This role provides an opportunity to grow the expertise of Grid Codes, compliance, and connection and operation in multiple jurisdictions as they continue to expand.
THE ROLE
* Manage the interconnection process for IPP projects from development through construction and Operations.
* Assess grid capacity, interconnection requirements, and technical feasibility for project sites.
* Collaborate with utilities, transmission operators (TSOs), and regional system operators (ISOs) and or (DSOs) to secure interconnection agreements.
* Ensure compliance with grid codes, technical standards, and regulatory requirements for interconnection and energy delivery.
* Coordinate grid studies with third-party consultants and utilities, such as Solution studies, System delivery upgrades, short circuit, and dynamic stability analyses.
* Review and validate interconnection studies and grid impact assessments.
* Provide grid-related input during project site selection, considering grid proximity, capacity, and costs.
* Contribute to project feasibility studies by analysing interconnection constraints and costs.
* With the lead project manager, oversee the design, procurement, and installation of grid interconnection infrastructure, including substations, transmission lines, and protection systems.
* Ensure timely construction and commissioning of grid infrastructure to meet project timelines. Coordinate grid energisation, testing, and commissioning with utilities and relevant stakeholders.
* Act as the primary liaison with utilities, TSOs, DSOs, and regulatory authorities for interconnection matters.
* Represent the IPP in meetings, workshops, and negotiations related to interconnection and grid integration. Work with the Head of Construction, Senior Project Manager, and selected EPC to align grid-related deliverables with overall project goals.
* Identify risks related to grid access, interconnection delays, or costs and develop mitigation strategies.
* Optimise interconnection solutions to minimise costs and enhance project performance.
* Monitor and adapt to regulatory or policy changes impacting grid connection processes.
THE CANDIDATE
* Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Power Systems, or a related field.
* Master’s degree in Energy Systems or Engineering preferred.
* Professional Engineer (PE) license or CEng with a leading Engineering Society preferred
* Certifications in grid management or renewable energy is preferred
* 10+ years of experience in grid interconnection, power systems, or renewable energy project development.
* Proven track record of managing grid connections for large-scale renewable energy projects (solar, Onshore Wind, BESS or hybrid).
* Strong understanding of power system design, grid codes, and interconnection processes across the UK and Europe. USA Codes such as PJM, ERCOT, NY SIO, and ISO-NE would be an advantage
* Proficient in power system modelling or at least previous experience in analysis tools (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, Power Factory).
* Familiarity with SCADA systems, substation design, and high-voltage transmission systems.
* Excellent project management and organisational skills
* Strong negotiation and communication abilities for stakeholder engagement