Regional Environmental Lead

EDP Renewables is a global leader in the renewable energy sector and currently operates in more than 25 markets. With eight offices and several sites, at EDP Renewables North America, we are experienced developers and operators of renewable energy. Our portfolio includes wind farms, solar parks, energy storage projects, and green hydrogen solutions throughout the continent. We are ranked among the top 5 in the U.S. in operational renewable energy capacity.
 

Our company is part of EDP, a global energy group present in around 30 markets with a particular emphasis on renewable energies. With more than 45 years of experience, we have been consolidating a relevant presence on the world energy scene based on the commitment to be all-green by 2030, leading the energy transition. With more than 13,000 employees around the world, we are committed to using our energy and heart to drive a better tomorrow.

 

What you will do

Role Overview:

Oversees and manages the preparation of federal, state, and local environmental documents including permits and environmental assessments. Ensures that the environmental permitting of EDPR NA’s projects meets both the company’s internal standards as well as the regulatory requirements of state, local and federal laws. Manages and/or advises on the work of consultants who perform environmental studies for the siting and permitting of the company’s renewable energy facilities. Oversees wildlife and permit compliance for wind and solar projects operating or under construction, ensuring projects are operated and constructed consistent with permit requirements and applicable laws.

Main responsibilities:

• Advises EDPR NA’s Development, Engineering, Asset Management teams and others in the

environmental permitting and permit compliance of EDPR NA’s projects from planning phases

through implementation and operations.

• Advises and assists in the preparation of environmental assessments and plans, as well as other federal, state and local environmental permit applications as needed.
• Develops project specific scope and schedule documentation to define the Environmental work activities required for the successful development of new projects.
• Supervises the work of environmental consultants, managing contract execution, overseeing contract schedules and ensuring quality of documents.
• Manages and/or advises the preparation of environmental studies for the siting and permitting of renewable energy generation facilities, as well as provided review of permit applications.
• Initiates and attends agency consultations and leads strategy efforts with critical internal and external team members in preparation of agency meetings.
• Supports due diligence efforts, ensuring projects EDPR NA acquires meet applicable local, state, and federal permitting requirements and internal company standards.
• Makes recommendations and provides support regarding Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and Renewable Energy Credit (REC) bids, project financing, and third-party due diligence with respect to environmental related inquiries.
• Manages post-construction wildlife compliance requirements including wildlife monitoring, mitigation, reporting, implementation of the Wildlife Incident Reporting System, and represents EDPR NA in Technical Advisory Committees, as needed.
• Assists and advises in the development of project avoidance and mitigation measures, as required. Manages implementation and execution of mitigation and avoidance strategies

• Tracks current and pending rulemaking and public policy issues related to permitting guidelines and other environmental issues affecting development activities and operating facilities.
• Coordinates with legal counsel to ensure development and operations of EDPR NA projects adhere with applicable environmental laws.
• Provides training and guidance to EDPR NA staff regarding environmental affairs, permitting and sitting.
• Makes recommendations regarding internal standards for environmental, biodiversity and sustainability.
• Assists in the development and implementation of EDPR’s Environmental Management System.
• Participates in wind industry and non-governmental organization (NGO) collaboratives, initiatives, and forums regarding wildlife and siting issues to help shape state and federal agency policies/guidelines in support of project development and optimal operational availability.
• Develops and maintains strong collaborative relationships with key allies, stakeholders, and regulators.
• Performs additional duties as required.

Employment type

Fulltime, Hybrid Schedule

Work site

Houston, Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana, New York, New York, Kansas City, Missouri; Portland, Oregon; Chi