Director of Project Finance, Renewables

Nenni and Associates is seeking a Director of Project Finance specializing in renewable energy projects. Responsibilities include developing financial strategies, securing funding, managing tax credits and RECs, negotiating Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), and overseeing financial risk management. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure compliance and successful execution of financial strategies for energy projects. The position is based in the United States.
Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to join our team as the Director of Project Finance, specializing in the financial analysis and financing of energy projects. In this leadership role, you will be instrumental in shaping and executing our financial strategy for renewable energy projects, ensuring the successful implementation of capital purchase contracts, leases, PPAs and other financial instruments.

Major Responsibilities:
• Financial Strategy and Planning:
• Develop and implement comprehensive financial strategies for energy projects, focusing on maximizing returns using incentives, tax benefits, RECs, and other innovative methods.
• Analyze market trends, regulatory changes, and financial risks to inform strategic decision-making.
• Identify and negotiate terms / contracts for purchasing or transferring tax credits and RECs for projects.
• Identify and negotiate terms / contracts for financing of PPAs and lease structured projects.
• Finance Mechanisms:
• Collaborate with private equity firms, banks, tax equity partners, and other financial institutions to secure funding for energy projects including PPAs and Energy-as-a-Service.
• Manage the intricacies of Federal, State, and local Tax Credits, depreciation, and tax equity structures associated with energy projects.
• Manage financing arrangements during the construction phase, facilitating a smooth transition into permanent financing structures. Understand equity requirements and secure necessary funding.
• Renewable Energy Credits (RECs):
• Oversee the identification, acquisition, and management of RECs to support our renewable energy portfolio.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to optimize REC monetization and compliance.
• Stay abreast of regulations and incentives related to renewable energy programs across different states, ensuring compliance and maximizing financial benefits.
• Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs):
• Lead negotiations and execution of PPAs with off-takers, ensuring favorable terms and financial viability.
• Provide financial expertise to evaluate and structure PPAs for various renewable energy projects.
• Develop and assess end-of-contract term options for solar PPAs, ensuring a seamless transition and maximum value for clients.
• Risk Management:
• Develop and implement risk management strategies for financial aspects related to RECs and PPAs.
• Monitor and mitigate financial risks associated with market volatility, regulatory changes, and project-specific factors.
• Financial Modeling and Analysis:
• Work closely with the finance and development team to prepare accurate financial forecasts and budgets thorough financial modeling and analysis to evaluate project feasibility, ROI, and overall financial performance.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including legal counsel, customers, regulatory bodies, and project development team, to ensure alignment and successful execution of financial strategies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including investors, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies.
• Compliance and Reporting:
• Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements.
• Prepare and present regular reports on the financial performance of energy projects.

Other Duties:
• Assist CFO with various projects and tasks as needed that may not be part of a PPA or lease model. This may include working on financing for battery storage projects, charge stations, or other related activities.
• Perform other related duties as required and assigned.

Knowledge and Skills:
• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field; advanced degree (MBA, CFA) preferred.
• Proven experience in project financial means and methods, with a focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, RECs, incentives, and PPAs.
• Strong understanding of energy markets, regulatory frameworks, and financial modeling.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrate the ability to work effectively remotely.
• In-depth knowledge of risk management and financial analysis.
• Strong understanding of basic accounting principles.
• Basic knowledge of tax regulations and compliance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other accounting software.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organization and documentation skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work well in a team and adapt to a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to complete multiple tasks and high volume of work by deadline.
• Possess a creative outlook with a problem-solving attitude.
• Excellent time management, organizational, and follow-through skills.