Senior Grid & Interconnection Analyst

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois.

📋 Description

• Lead SPG's analytics for grid and interconnection across distributed-generation solar, BESS at front-of-meter, and utility-scale storage projects.

• Develop and operate data tools, screening mechanisms, and analyses to evaluate grid capacity, costs, timelines, and operational constraints.

• Evaluate and prioritize potential interconnection points and provide guidance on project feasibility.

• Secure queue positions and facilitate applications through engagement with utilities and the interconnection process.

• Conduct screening-level power-flow and hosting-capacity analyses on distribution and sub-transmission networks.

• Scope and oversee studies conducted by utilities or consultants.

• Analyze hosting-capacity data, queue information, utility submissions, study outcomes, and market trends to determine optimal development regions.

• Assess candidate substations, feeders, and line taps; prepare and submit pre-applications and formal applications.

• Offer go/no-go recommendations for interconnection during site due diligence assessments.

• Review and manage interconnection and study agreements, including deposits, milestones, and cost responsibilities.

• Suggest adaptable interconnection arrangements, such as export or charging limits, curtailment strategies, DC-coupled configurations, and integrating storage with queued solar projects.

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with utility interconnection personnel and coordinate with utilities and grid operators.

• Develop and sustain automated tools for hosting-capacity and queue data, GIS maps, and interconnection inputs for site scorecards and project tracking boards.

• Interpret utility technical studies and provide guidance on project downsizing.

• Set benchmarks for interconnection costs and timelines.

• Evaluate BESS interconnection requirements and assess their influence on project business cases.

• Convert interconnection costs, timelines, and design modifications into inputs for financial modeling.

• Provide advice on interconnection strategy, entry into new markets, cost allocation, congestion risks, and strategies for mitigation.

• Engage in utility and public utility commission working groups and monitor changes in interconnection regulations and proceedings.

• Maintain precise interconnection data and deliver regular updates on project statuses, schedules, budgets, and decisions.

⛳️ Requirements

• 4–6 years of experience in interconnection, distribution or transmission planning, or grid analytics for solar and/or BESS, including hands-on management of interconnection applications through the study and agreement phases.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (preferably in power systems), Energy Systems, or a related quantitative discipline.

• PE, P.Eng., or EIT certification is advantageous.

• Strong analytical skills and technical proficiency combined with commercial insight.

• Familiarity with state distribution interconnection regulations, particularly in Illinois and Virginia.

• Knowledge of PJM and MISO interconnection processes in accordance with FERC regulations.

• Preferred experience with investor-owned utilities, cooperatives, municipal utilities, ISOs, RTOs, and public utility commissions in the United States.

• Experience collaborating with engineers and technical teams, and understanding technical requirements and the project development cycle.

• Familiarity with BESS interconnection and utility-scale interconnection processes.

• Knowledge of hosting-capacity methodologies, cluster studies, flexible interconnection, curtailment, and generation shifting.

• Comprehensive understanding of technical considerations and electrical theory.

• Proficiency in grid modeling and simulation tools such as CYME, Synergi, OpenDSS, PSS/E, PowerFactory, or equivalent.

• Required skills in Python and/or SQL and advanced Excel.

• Familiarity with Power BI or similar tools is a plus.

• Exposure to financial models for PV and BESS is advantageous.

• Experience with utility interconnection portals, hosting-capacity maps, and GIS data using QGIS or ArcGIS.

• Ability to independently manage functions with minimal supervision, structure ambiguous challenges, document and validate data sources, and utilize AI tools and automation.

• Willingness and capability to travel occasionally within the United States and Canada.

🏝️ Benefits

• Flexible/remote work options available.

• Occasional travel within the United States and Canada to facilitate project development activities.

• Commitment to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

• Recruitment-process accommodations provided in accordance with applicable laws.