Renewables Project Development Director

The Renewables Project Development Director at New York Power Authority in Buffalo, NY, is responsible for leading the development of utility-scale renewable energy projects. This role involves managing project origination, feasibility assessments, and stakeholder relationships while advocating for regulatory changes. The Director will drive innovation in renewable energy and oversee cross-functional teams to ensure project success, requiring a strong understanding of project development processes.
About the position

The Renewable Project Development Director is a pivotal role responsible for the origination and development of utility-scale renewable energy projects at various stages, from inception through to commercial operation. This position is integral to supporting the New York Power Authority's (NYPA) strategies and the broader renewable energy targets set by New York State. The Director will serve as a strategic market leader, driving innovation and growth through significant climate change investments. In addition to spearheading renewable growth initiatives for NYPA, the Director will act as an industry change agent, advocating for grid integration, energy storage policies, and regulatory shifts that facilitate electrification and adapt to the evolving energy landscape in New York, while also fostering collaboration with other states, Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs), and Independent System Operators (ISOs). The projects managed will encompass a range of technologies and applications, including renewable energy, energy storage, and transmission. Key responsibilities include managing relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, collaborating across multiple functions to develop innovative solutions, and negotiating with external partners. The Director should possess a robust understanding of the Renewable Project Development Process, which includes land leases or easement agreements, permitting and interconnection processes, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Candidates with a technical or engineering background will be preferred, as this role requires a comprehensive grasp of the complexities involved in renewable project development.

Responsibilities
• Lead development activities in early, mid, and late stages of large-scale renewable energy projects.
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• Drive origination and identify project opportunities, including greenfield development, M&A, and other potential partnerships, to support project pipeline growth.
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• 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.
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• 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.
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• Lead negotiations of key project and partnership contracts to maximize project value.
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• Oversee and guide the development process, ensuring adherence to project timelines and milestones.
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• Participate in industry events, trainings, and conferences as needed to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.
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• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to identify innovative solutions and strategies for project development and implementation.
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• Provide strategic insights and recommendations to senior management based on market analysis and project assessments.
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• Foster relationships with industry leaders, developers, regulators, and other key stakeholders to enhance NYPA's position in the renewable energy sector.
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• Stay updated with industry advancements, regulatory changes, and market trends to drive continuous improvement and innovation within project development practices.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree required.
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• Minimum 10 years of related experience with at least 7 years of experience in energy infrastructure projects preferred.
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• Utility or energy experience required.
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• Minimum of 3 years of experience developing or executing renewable generation and/or energy storage projects is preferred.
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• Experience interfacing with transmission organizations (NYISO and TOs) for interconnection related issues and familiarity with energy markets is preferred.
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• Advanced analytical abilities to think through complex problems and make strategic decisions.
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• Expertise in leading and supporting team members in the development of projects across all stages, from origination to implementation.
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• Excellent written, oral, and research skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and findings.
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• Strong ability to work independently on assignments, prioritize tasks, and manage deadlines, while also providing guidance and mentorship to team members.
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• Exceptional organization and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and external organizations from diverse backgrounds.
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• In-depth knowledge of the NYISO market, broader energy industry, and regulatory landscape.
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• Proficiency in financial analysis and understanding of business, financial, project management, and technical concepts.
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• 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.
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• Strong leadership and project management skills, including the ability to communicate clear objectives, prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and motivate an interdisciplinary team.
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• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
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• Ability to interface and effectively communicate with senior management, stakeholders, and external parties.
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• Knowledge of procurement processes to acquire necessary resources for project identification and development.
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• Proven track record of successfully negotiating key project and partnership contracts.

Nice-to-haves

Benefits
• Competitive salary range based on location and experience.
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• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
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• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
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• Participation in industry events and conferences.