Head of Grid and BESS Engineering

Our client is a leading renewable energy Independent Power Producer (IPP) with a significant portfolio of operational and development-stage solar PV and battery energy storage (BESS) assets across the UK. With ambitious growth plans and a strong commitment to supporting the UK's net-zero transition, the business is investing heavily in grid-connected renewable and flexibility assets.

To support this expansion, we are seeking an experienced Head of Grid & BESS Engineering to lead all grid connection, power systems and energy storage engineering activities across the UK portfolio.

The Role:

Reporting to the Engineering Director, you will act as the technical authority for grid and BESS matters, overseeing projects from early-stage development through construction, commissioning and operations. You will play a critical role in ensuring successful grid integration, securing connection strategies, managing technical risks and driving engineering excellence across a growing pipeline of utility‑scale solar and battery storage projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Grid Strategy & Connections

• Lead the grid connection strategy for utility-scale solar and BESS projects across the UK.

• Manage relationships with National Grid Electricity System Operator (NESO), Transmission Owners (TOs) and Distribution Network Operators (DNOs).

• Oversee connection applications, offers, modifications and compliance requirements.

• Review and challenge power system studies, including load flow, fault level, harmonic and dynamic stability analyses.

• Support projects through the grid queue reform process and evolving UK connection frameworks.

BESS Engineering

• Define engineering standards and technical specifications for utility-scale battery storage projects.

• Lead technology selection, supplier assessments and technical due diligence.

• Oversee the design and integration of battery systems, PCS, EMS, SCADA and plant control systems.

• Ensure compliance with UK Grid Code requirements and industry standards.

• Support commissioning, performance testing and operational optimisation.

Project Development & Delivery

• Provide technical leadership across development, EPC and operational teams.

• Support planning applications and stakeholder engagement on technical matters.

• Evaluate grid constraints, network opportunities and co‑location strategies.

• Identify technical risks and develop effective mitigation plans.

• Support project financing, lender technical reviews and M&A activities.

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Build and lead a high‑performing team of Grid and BESS Engineers.

• Manage specialist consultants and engineering partners.

• Collaborate closely with Development, Construction, Asset Management and Commercial teams.

• Represent the business with regulators, network operators and industry working groups.

Candidate Profile:

Essential

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering or a related discipline.

• 10+ years of experience in grid integration, power systems, renewable energy or battery storage.

• Strong understanding of the UK transmission and distribution network landscape.

• Proven experience securing grid connections for renewable energy projects.

• Demonstrated expertise in utility‑scale BESS development and engineering.

• Experience leading engineering teams and managing complex stakeholder environments.

Technical Expertise

• UK Grid Code and distribution code requirements.

• Power system analysis and grid studies.

• BESS technologies and system integration.

• Solar PV and renewable energy generation assets.

• Energy Management Systems (EMS) and SCADA.

• Power system software such as PowerFactory, PSS E, PSCAD or ETAP.

Desirable

• Experience working within a UK IPP, developer, utility or consultancy.

• Knowledge of ancillary services, flexibility markets and battery optimisation.

• Understanding of CFD, merchant and route‑to‑market structures.

• Chartered Engineer status (CEng) or equivalent.

Why Apply?

• Join one of the UK's fastest‑growing renewable energy platforms.

• Shape the future of large‑scale battery storage and grid integration.

• Work on a significant pipeline of UK solar and BESS projects.

• Influence business strategy at a senior leadership level.

• Competitive compensation package with excellent career progression.

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