Position: Grid Connections Manager

Department: Engineering

Location: Manly, NSW 2095

Introduction:

Global clean energy solutions provider Gentari is committed to doing our part in solving the world’s most pressing sustainable energy needs: to change how we live today and help secure a better future, focusing on three key business pillars of Renewable Energy, Hydrogen and Green Mobility. Gentari Australia, formerly Wirsol Energy, is amongst the leading players in the Renewable Energy sector in the Australian market, specialising in development, construction, asset management and maintenance of renewable energy projects across the country. Our growing portfolio comprises of solar & battery energy storage (BESS) across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. Helmed by a local team with deep understanding of the Australian energy landscape and supported by a leadership team with global energy expertise and a comprehensive portfolio built on innovation and growth, we are accelerating the transition to a more sustainable future, with benefits for all.

Responsibilities:

• In this role you will be the key source of advice and oversight on the grid connection strategy, plans and activities for our development, under-construction, in commissioning and operational renewable energy and storage projects.
• As a key team member you will be both technically proficient in the grid connection process and have the verbal and written communication skills to be able to work closely supporting teams through the lifecycle of renewable energy projects.
• You will advise on the grid aspects of site selection including scoping any due diligence work required by grid consultants to assist in the site selection process.
• You will contribute to the evaluation of equipment for all new projects including participating in tender evaluation committees.
• You will be required to be up to date with new inverter technologies, changes to the NERs, state specific requirements, transmission and major distribution upgrades and plans in the NEM, latest trends or issues in grid connections and you will share this knowledge with the development and other teams.
• You will have a key role selecting the consultants to the grid connection studies and will advise on the best strategy for early engagement with the NSPs.
• Throughout the grid connection application process, you will support the project development manager by advising on any key issues or the approach to be taken by the consultants to any issues and being involved in the negotiation with the NSPs and AEMO as needed.
• Develop, review and provide inputs to tender and contract technical specifications to ensure that grid connection and electrical items are covered and that there are no gaps.
• You will review the grid connection risks and status for project acquisitions, and scope consultants for work on these as needed.
• Assist with the design review from a grid perspective for the development and construction phases of our projects.
• You will own the GPS Compliance Plan for our operational projects, ensuring these are drafted and can be practically used by the teams running the projects.  You will teach the relevant O&M team members how to carry out the GPS compliance testing.
• You will support the operation and maintenance of the plants by providing grid expertise throughout the life of the plant including assisting with resolving any non-compliances and proposing any upgrades or changes to the sites.
• Interface with and work with internal team and respond to queries and ad-hoc requests on technical aspects of project developments and acquisitions.
• Communicate with and prepare reports for company management as required.

Skills and Experience

• Electrical engineering degree
• Thorough understanding of the current National Electricity Rules and connection process
• Knowledge and experience of power system studies, modelling software and the grid connection process for utility-scale renewable energy and storage projects in Australia.
• Experience dealing with power systems consultants and negotiating GPS clauses and connections with NSPs and AEMO.
• Experience across the grid scope of development, registration and commissioning of renewable energy or battery projects in Australia.
• Independent and critical thinker with strong analytical ability.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to confidently interact with peers, external parties and management.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently to achieve optimal results.

Benefits and perks

• Employee Assistance Program and other wellness initiatives
• Opportunities to work overseas for up to 10 working days per annum (subject to eligibility)
• Access to a shared company vehicle
• Phone allowance and other great perks (i.e., skin checks)
• Parental leave benefit
• L&D budget, individual and team allocation, incl. regular team “lunch and learns”
• Regular team bonding and social initiatives
• Access to a beachfront gym in Manly
• Opportunity to work collaboratively with a dynamic team which has successfully delivered several large-scale renewable energy projects in Australia.
• Flexible working opportunities in a fast-paced and exciting environment, that is collaborative in our friendly offices with harbour views in Manly, NSW