We are looking for a new colleague to support us with the searching for, and development of, solar PV projects (solar farms, floating solar, solar carports including battery storage and electric vehicle charging).
The role would involve searching for suitable project locations using criteria and software provided by us. The role also includes contacting land and asset owners to discuss opportunities for collaboration (e.g. negotiating and concluding lease option agreements on land/property). The role also involves compiling and maintaining a comprehensive spreadsheet with project details, task progress and other criteria).
The role is a remote working opportunity with monthly or bi-monthly physical meetings with the company director, and weekly progress meeting via MS TEAMS, Google Meet or other video conference platform. Occasionally you may need to attend project locations for meetings with the VARTEC team and/or land owners, land agents, planning consultants and others.
The role will be contract based with a view to extending this to a permanent role after completing a probationary period. Project bonuses will be awarded for successful projects in addition to a salary.
Role Overview
The Solar Project Developer will be responsible for identifying new project opportunities, securing land agreements, managing planning and permitting activities, coordinating grid connection applications, and progressing projects through the development lifecycle.
The successful candidate will work closely with landowners, planning consultants, grid operators, environmental consultants, and internal engineering teams to deliver a pipeline of high-quality renewable energy projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and assess potential utility-scale solar PV opportunities.
- Conduct site screening and feasibility assessments.
- Engage with landowners, agents, and stakeholders to secure land rights and option agreements.
- Build and maintain relationships with landowners and industry contacts.
Development Management
- Manage projects through the development lifecycle.
- Coordinate planning applications and supporting technical studies.
- Manage environmental, ecological, transport, and landscape consultants.
- Support community engagement and stakeholder consultation activities.
- Monitor project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Grid Connections
- Coordinate grid connection applications with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and National Grid.
- Evaluate connection offers and associated project economics.
- Support negotiations relating to grid capacity and connection timelines.
Commercial & Financial Analysis
- Support project financial modelling and investment assessments.
- Evaluate project viability, development costs, and revenue opportunities.
- Assist in project acquisition and due diligence activities when required.
Project Coordination
- Work closely with engineering, procurement, and construction teams.
- Maintain project schedules, budgets, and development milestones.
- Prepare internal reports and project updates for management.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Renewable Energy, Engineering, Environmental Science, Geography, Planning, Real Estate, or a related discipline.
- Experience in renewable energy project development.
- Experience developing utility-scale solar PV and/or battery storage projects in the UK.
- Understanding of UK planning and permitting processes.
- Knowledge of grid connection processes and DNO requirements.
- Strong commercial awareness and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
Job Type: Full-time
Contract length: 6 months
Pay: £55,000.00-£70,000.00 per year
Work Location: Remote
