About Lower 48 Energy

Lower 48 Energy is on a mission to deliver sustainable, innovative energy solutions that secure a low-carbon future. We are targeting 250 MW of clean energy capacity in the UK by 2026 and an ambitious 1 GW across Europe by 2030. As part of this growth, we are seeking a National Grid Construction Interface Consultant to ensure that our projects meet the highest standards of compliance, governance, and integration with national energy infrastructure.

This role is especially critical as we approach Final Investment Decision (FID) on several acquisitions totalling 200 MW. The successful candidate will be instrumental in guiding us through National Grid compliance requirements, ensuring zero delays in project delivery and grid connection.

Key Responsibilities:

Reports To: Director of Projects / CTO

Employment Type: Consultant – 1-2 days per week.

Compliance & Governance Oversight:

Act as the lead advisor on National Grid compliance, ensuring that all construction activities adhere to strict governance frameworks, technical standards, and regulatory requirements. Help us understand the full scope of regulatory obligations and "box-ticking" to avoid any missteps that could result in commercial penalties or delays in grid connection.

Stakeholder Coordination & Interface Management:

Serve as the critical interface between Lower 48 Energy, National Grid, contractors, and other regulatory bodies. Facilitate clear communication and collaboration to ensure alignment with all National Grid technical and procedural requirements. Proactively manage any issues at the interfaces of new and existing infrastructure, ensuring seamless integration into the grid.

Compliance Risk Management:

Identify and address potential compliance risks throughout the project lifecycle, especially in areas where National Grid standards must be met. Develop strategies to mitigate these risks, ensuring that any regulatory shortfalls or misalignments are avoided, and grid connection timelines are protected.

Project Planning & Scheduling:

Collaborate with internal and external teams to develop detailed project schedules that integrate National Grid processes. Ensure all compliance steps are built into the timeline, avoiding delays that could compromise the 200 MW acquisition projects and subsequent connection phases.

Advisory Role on Acquisitions (FID Stage):

Provide strategic guidance on the compliance aspects of our upcoming acquisitions. This role will be critical in assessing and advising on National Grid connection risks, governance challenges, and regulatory hurdles to ensure smooth execution and transition.

National Grid Engagement:

Maintain strong relationships with National Grid to stay updated on evolving regulations and processes. Advocate for Lower 48 Energy’s interests in all interactions, ensuring our projects receive timely approvals and are aligned with grid requirements at all stages.

Safety, Quality & Compliance Auditing:

Ensure that construction activities not only meet internal quality standards but are fully compliant with National Grid safety regulations and auditing processes. Oversee inspections and audits, proactively identifying and resolving any compliance issues.

Permitting & Regulatory Approvals:

Work closely with local and national authorities to secure all necessary permits, ensuring that Lower 48 Energy’s projects comply with National Grid’s permitting and regulatory approval processes, thereby preventing project delays.

Commercial Impact Awareness:

Provide detailed analysis of how non-compliance with National Grid standards could impact commercial outcomes, including delays in grid connection or penalties. Ensure all risks are communicated to senior leadership with clear mitigation plans to avoid costly oversights.

Key Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in managing construction projects within the energy sector, with a strong focus on National Grid compliance or large utility infrastructure.
• In-depth understanding of National Grid governance frameworks, technical standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Proven track record of successfully managing interfaces between construction projects and existing energy grid infrastructure.
• Experience in risk management with a focus on compliance and commercial impacts in the energy sector.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to liaise effectively with internal teams, contractors, National Grid, and regulatory bodies.
• Proficiency in project management tools and familiarity with National Grid’s processes for grid connection and compliance management.

Why Join Us?

Lower 48 Energy offers the unique opportunity to play a vital role in the future of clean energy. By ensuring full compliance with National Grid standards, you’ll help us avoid costly delays and commercial risks, directly contributing to our goal of delivering 250 MW by 2026 in the UK and 1 GW by 2030 across Europe. Join a team that values expertise, collaboration, and innovation in the pursuit of a low-carbon energy future.