Background and motivation:
Can you tell us about your professional background and how you became involved in project management?
I studied electrical engineering, and shortly after completing my studies, I had the opportunity to join a team working on a fascinating project: designing a submarine interconnection between the Balearic Islands. I started as a Project Engineer, but my role quickly evolved to include responsibilities similar to a Project Manager’s assistant. This was an invaluable learning experience, allowing me to understand project phases, conduct regular meetings, manage action trackers, update plans, handle budgets and contracts, and appreciate the importance of site studies and engineering. I was fortunate to learn from a highly skilled team of professionals from international companies, and the company also invested in my development through project management courses. After that, I naturally transitioned into more project-focused roles, working on the design of substations, high voltage lines, and eventually renewable energy projects, particularly solar.
What motivated you to join WElink, and what excites you most about working in the renewable energy sector?
I was initially drawn to WElink by the challenging projects in renewable energy, but what made me stay was the people. WElink feels like a small family filled with talented individuals and a great working environment. The renewable energy sector is dynamic and impactful, offering endless opportunities to innovate and make a real difference.
Project initiation and planning:
Can you walk us through the process of initiating a new project at WElink? How do you define project goals and objectives?
At WElink, initiating a new project starts with a comprehensive needs assessment and stakeholder consultation. We conduct feasibility studies to outline the project scope, resources, and timeline. Project goals and objectives are defined to align with both business strategies and client needs, using SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). This process involves developing a Project Execution Plan and obtaining client sign-off to ensure alignment and clarity from the outset.
Technology and innovation:
What are some of the key technologies WElink employs to enhance project delivery and efficiency in renewable energy projects?
WElink utilizes several advanced technologies, including 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) for design optimization, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for site analysis, and specialized simulation tools like PVcase and PVSyst. We are also exploring AI applications for performance improvement and analyzing Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) optimization software. Additionally, WElink is developing a project management tool based on the EPC Tracker solution to enhance project execution.
How do you stay updated with the latest technological advancements in project management and renewable energy?
Staying updated involves a combination of continuous learning through webinars, industry conferences and fairs, and courses. We engage with technology partners, subscribe to industry publications, participate in professional networks, and encourage knowledge sharing within our teams to remain at the forefront of technological advancements. WElink has a strong technology department to support this process.
Team alignment and collaboration:
In your experience, what strategies are most effective in ensuring team alignment and collaboration throughout a project’s lifecycle and how do you handle conflicts or misalignments within project teams to keep the project on track?
Effective strategies include setting clear expectations from the start, fostering open communication, and implementing regular check-ins through Agile methodologies such as daily stand-ups and sprint reviews. For handling conflicts, we use conflict resolution techniques like mediation and root cause analysis to address the issues early and maintain a focus on common project goals. Continuous feedback loops and team-building activities are also key to sustaining collaboration.
Risk management and problem-solving:
What is your approach to risk management, and how do you ensure that potential issues are identified and mitigated early in the project?
Our approach to risk management involves a proactive identification process using tools like risk registers, SWOT analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations. Risks are assessed based on their impact and likelihood, and mitigation plans are developed. Regular risk reviews, stakeholder consultations, and scenario planning are conducted to adapt and respond to any emerging risks. Another way to minimize risk is involving tier 1 technical advisors along the process to ensure that we didn´t skip any critical point.
Performance monitoring and evaluation:
How do you measure the success of a project at WElink? What key performance indicators (KPIs) do you focus on? Can you share an example of how you used data and analytics to drive project improvements?
Project success is measured using KPIs such as on-time delivery, budget deviations, quality of deliverables, client satisfaction, and environmental impact metrics.
For example, recently we analyzed the planning provided by one contractor, and they thought that the critical path was on material delivery to the site. However, reviewing data from our site supervisors showed that site progress was quite poor and if they continued with that progress, the bottleneck would be on-site execution. Detecting this deviation allowed us to implement an acceleration plan onsite by increasing resources and avoiding further delays. That is the importance of a supervisory team on-site to provide real data and a system that allows proper data treatment to cross-check the planning to prove progress and identify properly the critical path.
Future of project management:
What trends do you see shaping the future of project management in the renewable energy industry?
Key trends include the increased adoption of digital twins, AI-driven project management tools, and integrated platforms for data and resource management. Sustainability will continue to play a central role, with more emphasis on green project management practices and circular economy principles.
Customer and stakeholder engagement:
How do you ensure effective communication and engagement with stakeholders throughout the project?
Effective communication with stakeholders is maintained through structured engagement plans that include regular updates, meetings, and transparent reporting. We use collaborative platforms for real-time updates and feedback and tailor communication strategies based on stakeholder preferences and influence levels.
Sustainability and impact:
How does WElink integrate sustainability principles into project management practices?
WElink integrates sustainability by embedding environmental and social governance (ESG) criteria into every phase of the project lifecycle. This includes conducting sustainability assessments, utilizing green materials, optimizing resource use, and ensuring compliance with relevant environmental regulations. We also measure and report on the carbon footprint and social impact of our projects.
Professional development and growth:
How do you stay motivated and continuously improve your skills and knowledge as a project manager in the renewable energy sector?
Continuous improvement is achieved through regular professional development, including training in state-of-the-art technology like MBATT which I recently finished, attending industry seminars and fairs like Intersolar, and participating in group activities with our highly skilled technical team. Staying motivated also comes from a passion for renewable energy and the impact it has on sustainability and the environment, as well as the pertinence feeling to the WElink family.
