Grid Connection Manager - Ireland
Location: Ireland (Dublin/Hybrid)
Company: ILOS New Energy Ireland
Scope: Full-time
WHO ARE ILOS?
ILOS is a fast-growing renewable energy company with a strong presence across Europe, backed by BNP Paribas Asset Management Alts and committed to accelerating the energy transition. Since 2018, we have developed, built, and operated large-scale solar PV projects across seven core markets.
THE ROLE OVERVIEW
As Grid Connection Manager (Ireland), you will own the end-to-end grid connection strategy and delivery for ILOS's Irish projects, from capacity scanning and application through design, legal/commercial negotiation, build, commissioning and compliance.
You’ll be the primary interface with EirGrid and ESB Networks, aligning development and delivery teams to secure timely, cost-efficient, grid-code-compliant connections that maximise export and long-term asset value.
TASKS
- Lead early-stage grid feasibility and capacity assessments; define preferred connection options (TSO/DSO, voltage level, contestable vs non-contestable); and inform site selection and project layouts.
- Prepare and submit high-quality grid applications under the relevant processes (e.g., ECP); manage RFIs, studies and milestones; and negotiate connection method, costs and programme through to Connection Offer execution.
- Act as day-to-day counterpart to EirGrid (TSO) and ESB Networks (DSO), and coordinate with SEMO/CRU as needed; maintain constructive relationships to de-risk reviews, outages and energisation windows.
- Oversee consultant/contractor delivery of load-flow, short-circuit, dynamic and harmonic studies (DIgSILENT/PSSE/PSCAD); steer HV/MV design, protection, SCADA/telecoms and metering so designs meet Grid Code/Distribution Code and RfG.
- Lead the commercial and legal aspects of connections (charges, securities, contestable works, wayleaves/easements), and set up/maintain framework agreements with ICP/contestable contractors and key equipment suppliers.
- Own the grid workstream programme across design, procurement, build and testing; coordinate outages, witness testing, compliance testing and documentation through energisation and GCRP/DCRP compliance sign-off.
- Maintain a proactive risk register (curtailment/constraints, outages, cost escalation), drive mitigations and value engineering, and control changes to scope, budget and schedule.
- Establish and enforce department procedures (capacity checks, application QA, contractor audits) and provide clear reporting on status, risks and KPIs to Development, Construction, Asset Management and senior leadership.
PROFILE
- Degree in Electrical/Power Engineering (or closely related discipline).
- 5–8+ years of hands-on experience delivering grid connections in Ireland for utility-scale renewables (solar preferred; BESS/wind a plus).
- Deep knowledge of the EirGrid Grid Code, Distribution Code, EU RfG, and Irish connection processes (e.g., ECP) including contestable works.
- Proven track record managing TSO/DSO interfaces (EirGrid, ESB Networks) from application to energisation and compliance testing.
- Working knowledge of HV/MV design, protection coordination, SCADA/telecoms, metering and commissioning QA.
- Familiarity with network study tools (DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSS®E, PSCAD) and interpreting study outputs.
- Strong contract and commercial skills (frameworks for ICP/contestable contractors, supplier agreements, securities/charges).
- Clear, concise communicator with excellent reporting and stakeholder skills; fluent English and a full Irish driving licence are required.
Become part of a committed team shaping the future of clean energy, together.
CONTACT
Do you have questions about your career at ILOS? We’re here for you!
Whether it's about open positions, the application process, or our work environment – our HR team will be happy to support you.
Contact our Talent Acquisition Manager, Toby Barbieri referencing “Grid Manager IRE” in your subject bar – [email protected]