Associate, Asset Management – Thermal (Gas)

POSITION DESCRIPTION

THE COMPANY

Onward Energy is an independent power platform that owns and operates over 6,000 MW of utility-scale wind, solar and natural gas generation projects across the U.S. Our Vision is to reliably power a sustainable future. Our Mission, as North Americas premier independent power generator, is to deliver renewable and reliable power to our customers, opportunities to our associates, sustainable returns to the families who invest in us and a better world to the next generation. Based in Denver and Charlotte, Onward Energy is a company where people and power are always on. We are where renewable meets reliable. See www.onwardenergy.com for more information.

THE CHALLENGE

Responsible for managing interests in thermal power plant assets including power offtake, contract management and executing commercial improvements, the successful candidate will assist in the identification, planning and implementation of projects that enhance asset value in close collaboration with several teams across the company, including Accounting, Operations, Development, and Commercial. The Associate will also be active in the routine management of assigned power plants, including budgeting, monthly P&L review and variance analysis, interfacing with markets, and compliance with PPAs, certain debt agreement covenants and various regulatory requirements. Reports to Director, Asset Management.

• Optimize the value of thermal power projects
  • Under the supervision of the Director, develop asset plans for assigned projects, that identify opportunities for asset optimization, determine how to address downside risks, and include project management schedules for plan execution.
  • Support regulatory or legislative solutions as part of existing power project recontacting in coordination with trade groups and both in-house and outside counsel.
  • Maintain relationships with commercial counterparties to protect investors interests in assets, quickly and efficiently resolving differences or disputes as they may arise.
  • Coordinate with third-party marketers and organized markets/ISOs for periods of merchant operations, including formulation of energy bids and capacity pricing strategies.
  • Assist in the diligence, acquisition and integration of new investments that the company makes, including development and expansion opportunities at existing projects.
• Support financial management of power projects
  • Coordinate development of annual plant budgets and 5-year forecasts for plant operations.
  • Participate in monthly variance analysis and performance reporting.
  • Interface with debt holders and investment partners.
  • Support insurance claims and coordination with insurance brokers.
• Support operations and administration of assigned projects
  • Support regulatory reporting and compliance efforts, as needed.
  • Assist with operations and continual improvement efforts that result in either one-time or recurring positive cash flow through coordination with Plant Managers and plant personnel.
  • Develop cost/benefit analyses for plant capital and facility proposals for improved efficiencies. Participate in the implementation of the plan.
  • Assist with engineering improvement projects that either improve plant efficiency/longevity or resolve technical plant dilemmas.
  • Support management of plant-level service agreements.
  • For market-based assets, assist in the daily marketing effort of generation into the ISO and coordination with energy managers.
  • Prepare shadow settlement of market settlements and any third-party settlements of energy and gas
  • Work with the plant to track emission allowances and ensure emissions compliance.

THE PROFILE TO SUCCEED

Degree in business, engineering or related discipline preferred, and 3+ years of experience with power generation assets, with an interest in the role of gas-fired generation in the energy transition. Experience leading projects. Experience with a variety of US electricity markets is strongly preferred. Experience with financial tools and principles such as a financial models, cost/benefit analysis, accounting standards and budgeting are required.

• Willingness to be coached and mentored by experienced Asset Manager.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills with attention to detail, accuracy and timeliness.
• Basic understanding of fundamental power generation concepts and operations.
  • A basic understanding of power and natural gas commodity prices and markets
  • Some familiarity with various commercial structures including power purchase agreements, tolls, various hedging structures and long/open merchant positions.
  • Exposure to various spreadsheet-based models for engineering, operating, financing or M&A purposes.
• Ability to think critically, analyze complex problems with no clear solutions, exercise good judgment, defend conclusions before senior management and make sound decisions.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid or remote environment demonstrating initiative and self-motivation.
• Ability to interact and communicate well with individuals in all areas of the Company and outside vendors.
• Maintain the highest standards of conduct and integrity in all dealings inside and outside the organization.
• Demonstrated advanced knowledge of Excel, Word, Power Point and various other business applications.
• Experience with NERC Generating Availability Data System (GADS) is preferred.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

THE TEAM

The Onward Energy team is comprised of industry professionals who embrace collaboration, dedication, and hard work while also being down to earth. At Onward Energy, we seek to find solutions rather than assign blame.

THE WORK ENVIRONMENT

The position functions in a smoke and vaping free professional office environment. The role routinely utilizes standard office equipment such as laptop computer, phone, and scanner/photocopier.

THE TOTAL REWARDS

Onward Energy total rewards philosophy is motivated by a key tenet of People First and offers associates a comprehensive total rewards package which includes market competitive compensation, health, life insurance, and retirement savings benefits.

If you require an accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a disability to [email protected].

EEO STATEMENT:

Onward Energy is an Affirmative Action Employer, Females/Minority/Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.