A Vision for Renewable Energy Innovation

Heather Patti lives in Raleigh, NC and is a Senior Associate with Montrose Environmental Solutions, Inc with 24 years of experience in the environmental consulting industry. Heather’s focus is to support greenfield and brownfield renewable energy projects of all sizes, from the early site due diligence phase through Issued-For-Construction permits. She provides multi-disciplinary project management, coordinates civil and electrical design, supports project siting & qualification, conducts critical issues analyses, environmental due diligence surveys, completes Federal, State and Local Permits, and attends local hearings and open houses on her client’s behalf. Heather is a passionate ambassador of the renewable energy industry, and helps leadMontrose’s Renewable Energy Services practice.

Please tell us about your journey and key roles and responsibilities in this industry.

Over the past decade, I’ve been deeply immersed in the renewable energy sector, specializing in early site due diligence and civil engineering for solar and battery energy storage projects. My responsibilities span from conducting feasibility studies and site assessments to navigating zoning and permitting regulations, all while fostering collaboration with our clients, local stakeholders and communities. Additionally, I’m dedicated to advocating for sustainable development initiatives, including brownfield rejuvenation, and promoting environmental conservation.

What are some recent trends and challenges impacting the industry?

Recent trends in the renewable energy industry include increasing global demand driven by environmental concerns and advancements enhancing efficiency and affordability. However, challenges persist, including policy fluctuations, interconnection delays, supply chain disruptions, grid integration complexities, and workforce development needs. Climate change also underscores the importance of designing resilient infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.

How have you adjusted your approach or strategy to address and overcome these challenges?

As a leader, I prioritize proactive planning, transparent communication, and collaboration to address industry challenges effectively. Engaging with local communities and stakeholders early on fosters support and understanding for our projects. Simplifying regulatory procedures and investing in workforce training help navigate policy changes and skill requirements. Resilience planning is integral to mitigate climate-related risks, while fostering a culture of innovation allows for adaptation to evolving complexities.

How do you envision the future of the space?

I foresee continued expansion and innovation in the renewable energy sector, driven by affordability and popularity of solar, wind power, and battery storage. Collaboration between government and commercial institutions will facilitate infrastructure development and smart grid implementation, accelerating the energy transition. Strengthening sustainability and resilience will position renewable energy as a cornerstone in combating climate change, paving the way for a brighter future.

What would be your piece of advice to your fellow peers?

My advice to fellow industry peers is to prioritize early site studies, engage in education and awareness efforts with local authorities and communities, and leverage existing subsidies and incentives to reduce project costs. Staying informed about policy changes and regulatory affairs is crucial for successful navigation in this evolving landscape. Embracing innovation and skill enhancement in the workforce is essential to keep pace with sweeping trends and technologies. Additionally, seizing opportunities in brownfield development can be lucrative given current incentives and possibilities, requiring a strategic and agile approach for success in the renewable energy arena.