Development Manager - BESS / Energy Storage

FRUITION is seeking a BESS Development Manager in Leeds, UK, to oversee utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System projects. Responsibilities include technical execution, stakeholder coordination, and managing project phases from pre-development to operational. The ideal candidate should have experience in renewable energy project management, particularly in battery storage, and be familiar with BESS technologies and systems. The role requires strong technical specification and bid evaluation skills.
Our client is a leading developer and asset manager of utility scale energy storage and flexibility technology in the UK and they’re seeking a BESS Development Manager. The ideal candidate will have a blend of technical, project management, and stakeholder coordination experience, particularly focused on energy storage and grid-connected infrastructure projects.

As The BESS Development Manager, you will be responsible for technical execution and coordination across the lifecycle of utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. This includes pre-development, development, procurement, construction, and operational phases.

Main Responsibilities:
• Evaluate and recommend suitable BESS technologies and products based on project conditions.
• Take responsibility for system configuration planning to align with project objectives and grid requirements.
• Coordinate preliminary grid compliance assessments and engage with grid consultants, DNOs, and TSOs.
• Develop technical specifications for BESS and SCADA/EMS systems
• Manage technical input throughout EPC and BESS supplier tendering, including evaluating bids, assessing compliance, and handling technical clarifications.
• Coordinate the technical review of supplier proposals, verifying compliance with project specifications, warranty conditions, and performance requirements.
• Support the monitoring of on-site installation and commissioning activities to ensure execution aligns with approved designs and meets quality and performance expectations.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for EPCs, DNOs, BESS vendors, and technical advisors throughout project execution.
• Attend technical meetings with key stakeholders to ensure consistent understanding and progress across all technical interfaces.
• Work closely with the Project Manager to review technical progress, resolve issues, and align deliverables with project timelines.
• Engage with the O&M team to review operational data and identify lessons learned from commissioned projects.
• Remain up to date with changes in regulations, standards, and technology relevant to BESS development and grid integration.

What will it take to be successful?
• Previous Development Management experience within renewable energy, preferably battery storage, would be ideal.
• Experience of managing large-scale energy projects with multiple contractors and stakeholders
• Familiarity with BESS system architecture, and SCADA / EMS (Energy Management Systems).
• Demonstrated ability to support or lead projects from pre-development through commissioning.
• Experience in technical specification writing, tendering, and bid evaluation for EPC and BESS vendors.
• Ability to manage and coordinate multiple stakeholders and technical interfaces across complex projects.

About Us

Climate17 is a purpose-led, international Renewable Energy & Sustainability recruitment firm. We provide specialist talent acquisition services to organisations seeking to reduce their environmental footprint, as well as those working towards the decarbonisation of the energy sector.

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