The rise of renewable energy requires not just innovation but a solid foundation of engineering expertise. At ECA Solar, Michael Redding , Director of Civil Engineering, plays a key role in ensuring that solar projects are both environmentally responsible and structurally sound.
With over 25 years of experience, Michael has been at the forefront of overcoming the industry's challenges. In this article, we dive into his insights on navigating the complexities of civil engineering in renewable energy and the future of community solar development.
Can you share a bit about your background/experience and what first attracted you to civil engineering, particularly in the renewable energy sector?
I grew up near NYC and had a chance to work with a construction company that restored and repaired the Statue of Liberty, the Williamsburg Bridge and other iconic structures. Seeing the inner workings of these structures and how it all comes together inspired me toward civil engineering. I have always been a “tree hugger" and have a belief that we need to use natural resources responsibly.
My early career focused on environmentally focused works that cleaned up toxic sites, restored lakes and transformed landfills into parks and athletic fields. Renewable energy is my new focus with regards to using our natural resources efficiently and effectively. It brings together all the innovative civil engineering I employed to resolve brownfield and distressed sites along with a need to educate communities about the science behind solar and its benefits on our environment and energy resources.
What does your role as Director of Civil Engineering at ECA Solar entail, and what are some of the mission critical deliverables you are responsible for?
I analyze each site for its unique land characteristics and then determine whether a proposed solar project can be supported on the land. My critical role is obtaining the necessary zoning and planning approvals from the local government as well as state and federal permits.
What are some of the biggest challenges you see in the community solar industry today, particularly from a civil engineering and permitting standpoint?
Overcoming misinformation about community solar projects. Solar comes under great scrutiny by the public; especially, when a project is located near residential properties. The public often misconstrues information about the technology that goes into the solar panels and electrical equipment. Questions come up about property values, noise levels, and chemicals.
Are there any emerging best practices in civil engineering that you are most excited about, particularly in relation to solar development?
Siting projects to be in congruence with the landscape setting provides an exciting challenge for me. Solar panels mounted in a field creates a stark change to a rural landscape. Analyzing a site from the neighbors view as well for passersby reveals opportunities to position the array in areas that are less visible or blend in with the landform. Then designing a variety of landscaping for screening that also restores the project views to a natural scene that integrates with the surroundings.
What advice would you give to young engineers starting in the solar industry?
From a civil engineering perspective, engineers need to take the time to truly understand the permitting pathway for a project. As communities enact new regulations, there are usually major nuances that can greatly impact the siting and design of a project. All of these nuances may be in several different sections. Review the zoning and planning code completely to identify key requirements like setbacks, heights, and prime soils. Another key understanding is how long a permit approval is valid. Utility approvals can take years to gain which can cause challenges if a permit is valid for only a year or two.
What are you most looking forward to achieving with ECA Solar in the next few years?
Our company is growing fast, we added 15 people from the time I started. I was the only civil engineer but now there are 4 of us. I look forward to growing our team and developing engineering standards and design practices that separate ECA Solar from our competitors. We have always prided ourselves in developing projects that are ready to build, minimizing risk on the EPC.
As the renewable energy industry continues to evolve, leaders like Michael ensure it does so with a strong foundation of responsibility and progress.
To learn more about ECA Solar's and their team of industry experts click here!
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