New York is leading the nation in the fight on global climate change and the transition to a clean energy-powered economy. The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act) has created the most aggressive climate change goals in the nation and requires an ambitious agenda that blends proven catalysts with innovative approaches while operating across a broader energy arena that is rapidly evolving. New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) is a driving force in realizing this agenda. NYSERDA works with stakeholders that span residents, business owners, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utilities, investors, entrepreneurs, and more, to develop, invest, and foster conditions that:

　　Attract the private sector capital investment needed to expand New York’s clean energy economy.

　　Overcome barriers to using clean energy at a large-scale in New York.

　　Enable New York’s communities and residents to benefit equitably from energy efficiency and renewable energy.

　　Job Overview

　　The Distributed Energy Resources team at NYSERDA covering solar and energy storage is seeking a distribution system policy and DER interconnection subject matter expert and thought leader to join the team as Senior Advisor, Distribution Grid Policy. The successful candidate will lead initiatives in the areas of quantitative analysis, policy analysis and formulation, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement towards advancing distribution grid policy, planning and investments so as to accelerate distributed solar and storage deployment across New York.

　　To be successful in this role, a candidate must have strong technical knowledge of electric distribution systems, technical and non-technical policy matters relating to DER interconnection, and distributed solar and storage markets, while also possessing excellent interpersonal, project management, writing, and presentation skills. The candidate must be able to formulate technically robust and thoughtful policy solutions for addressing distribution grid-related barriers to distributed solar and storage deployment, as well strategically engage with stakeholders (NYS agencies, electric utilities, solar/storage industry) towards implementing those solutions.

　　Specifically, the role will cover:

　　Distribution grid planning and investments

　　Distribution hosting capacity and headroom

　　Distributed generation interconnection studies and regulatory policy

　　Rate design and tariff structures

　　Serve as DER liaison with the Smart Grid and Transmission teams at NYSERDA

　　Tracking and contributing to the work done by the utilities in the Comprehensive Grid Planning Process (CGPP)

　　Primary Responsibilities

　　Contribute to the State's strategic decision making relating to DER interconnection policy, distribution system planning, and investment by providing input regarding the strategic impact, costs, stakeholder needs, policy alignment, and potential market impacts of such decisions.

　　Serve as NYSERDA’s DER Team Lead at stakeholder forums including the Coordinated Grid Planning Process Proposal (CGPP) Energy Policy Planning Advisory Council (EPPAC), the Interconnection Policy Working Group (IPWG) and Interconnection Technical Working Group (ITWG).

　　Impart a deep and broad base of knowledge regarding electric distribution systems, DER interconnection policy and rate structures to internal and external stakeholders, including NYSERDA leadership and other New York State agencies.

　　Establish and maintain positive collaborative working relationships across NYSERDA and its NY Green Bank, and with key regulators and stakeholders including the Department of Public Service and electric utilities.

　　Maintain up-to-date knowledge and data on technical and non-technical policy issues on the distribution network related to the interconnection and operation of solar and energy storage projects on the grid.

　　Advance methods and processes that improve timing, reduce cost, and increase efficiency of DER interconnection and deployment.

　　Manage development, scoping, contracting, and oversight of various research projects that inform the State’s decision-making regarding distribution grid policy, DER interconnection, and distributed renewable energy deployment.

　　Minimum Qualifications

　　Master's degree in electrical engineering or energy policy

　　At least seven years of relevant experience directly related to DER interconnection and/or distribution system planning

　　Deep and broad knowledge of distribution rate structures, DER interconnection rules and regulations, distribution system planning and investment policy, and current developments related to DER interconnection and deployment

　　Project management and leadership skills including the ability to work individually and as a team member, maintain project timelines and budgets, and deliver on commitments.

　　Experience with stakeholder engagement, particularly with DER stakeholders (regulators, electric utilities, DER industry representatives)

　　Highest level of communication and interpersonal skills involving the ability to work cross-functionally to understand requirements, present alternatives, and make recommendations.

　　Preferred Qualifications

　　PhD in energy policy, electric engineering, or related fields, with at least seven years relevant experience

　　Deep knowledge of rules, regulations and constraints pertaining to distributed solar and storage interconnection in New York

　　Deep knowledge of distributed energy markets, systems and tariffs, distributed solar and storage technology and distribution system infrastructure

　　Experience working with key DER stakeholders and familiarity with stakeholder forums advancing DER interconnection and distribution system planning for New York

　　Experienced in energy project analysis, modeling, regulation, utility operations or independent system operator functions

　　Experienced in stakeholder outreach, engagement and coalition building

　　Please submit two files, one for your cover letter and another for a resume.

　　[IND123]