Senior BESS Developer

Green Recruitment LTD - New York, NY

Full-time - Senior

New York, NY

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Senior BESS Developer will lead the development and construction of distributed Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects in the NYC Metropolitan area. This role requires deep expertise in the technical, regulatory, and economic aspects of BESS, focusing on grid interconnection, site acquisition, permitting, and project execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of 5MW/20MWh and larger distributed BESS projects, managing all stages from feasibility assessment to commercial operation.
• Oversee and coordinate site selection, due diligence, and land acquisition, ensuring sites meet technical, regulatory, and economic viability criteria.
• Manage the interconnection process with ConEdison, ensuring compliance with grid requirements, including Interconnection Queue Management, Coordinated Electric System Interconnection Review (CESIR), and utility-specific approval processes.
• Navigate and secure all necessary permits and approvals from relevant AHJs (DOB, NYFD, etc.), ensuring full compliance with NYC zoning, land use regulations, and building codes.
• Lead efforts to obtain FDNY permitting for BESS projects, ensuring adherence to fire safety regulations, energy storage codes, and safety measures.
• Collaborate with NYCHA and other stakeholders for the development of BESS projects on public and privately-owned land.
• Oversee the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) process for BESS projects, ensuring alignment with technical specifications, timelines, and budgets.
• Provide technical leadership on BESS system design, ensuring compatibility with project goals and regulatory requirements.
• Work closely with contractors, engineers, and other external partners to ensure seamless execution of construction and commissioning activities.
• Lead negotiations with ConEdison regarding interconnection agreements, ensuring successful integration of BESS projects into the distribution grid.
• Develop financial models and assess the economic feasibility of BESS projects, evaluating revenue streams such as Capacity Markets, Demand Response, and VDER incentives.
• Analyze energy market trends, incentives, and utility tariffs to optimize project economics and identify new business opportunities.
• Serve as the point of contact for all project stakeholders, including landowners, permitting authorities, utilities, and community representatives.
• Engage in community outreach, particularly with NYCHA residents and other local stakeholders, to build support for BESS projects.
• Ensure clear and effective communication with internal teams, external partners, and regulatory bodies to facilitate smooth project development and execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Urban Planning, or related fields; Advanced degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a focus on distributed energy storage or utility-scale solar/BESS projects.
• Deep understanding of ConEdison grid interconnection processes and NYC's regulatory landscape, including permitting with FDNY and local AHJs.
• Proven track record of successful land acquisition, permitting, and execution of BESS projects in NYC or comparable urban environments.
• Strong technical understanding of BESS technology, system design, and integration with utility grids.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders, timelines, and deliverables.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience developing proformas and assessing project economics, incentives, and utility tariffs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with regulatory authorities, community stakeholders, and internal teams.
• Knowledge of NYC energy market dynamics, including VDER, Capacity Markets, and Demand Response programs.
• Familiarity with large-scale renewable energy project financing and contracting.
• Experience working with NYCHA or similar public entities on energy projects.