RRC’s supplier quality services are renowned for their adaptability in ensuring suppliers meet various applicable governing standards, covering a broad spectrum of industries, including energy, aerospace, and automotive “We can take the same principles and apply them across any industry,” said Sandra Laird, Vice President of Field Services. This flexibility is rooted in standardized processes like ISO 9001, AS 9100, and IATF 16949, ensuring consistent and high-quality outputs.

RRC supplier quality services encompass supplier qualification, development, maintenance, and improvement. “We assess everything from a supplier’s systems and capabilities to their capacity for consistent production,” explained Larry King, Quality Director of Field Services. This comprehensive approach includes evaluations such as First Article Inspection (FAI) and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), which are crucial for identifying and mitigating risks in the production process.

One of RRC’s standout features is its global reach. With engineers in key regions like India, China, and Mexico, the company offers localized support that not only reduces travel costs for clients but also provides timely expertise. “Having people in these areas reduces costs for our clients and provides immediate, on-the-ground expertise,” Laird noted. This setup ensures that RRC can respond quickly and efficiently to client needs, regardless of location.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of RRC’s approach. The company works closely with clients to tailor its services to their specific requirements. “Our clients often provide us with detailed drawings and quality documents so that we can ensure our team is well-versed in product-specific requirements,” King shared. This dedication to client satisfaction has led to long-term partnerships, such as a recent engagement where RRC’s work extended from an initial four months to nearly two years due to the expertise and quality support provided.

RRC is not just validating supplier’sstandards; the company is also thinking ahead, continuously identifying opportunities for suppliers to optimize processes and reduce costs. “We are constantly exploring ways to make processes leaner and more efficient, thereby reducing costs,” King emphasized. The focus on continuous improvement at the supplier, as well as validating process and capacity, allows RRC to review current supply demands and the ability to meet the delivery.  This positions RRC as a reliable partner in the ever-evolving landscape of quality assurance.

RRC’s supplier quality services are a comprehensive solution for ensuring high standards across various industries. Their expertise, global presence, and client-centric approach make them a valuable partner, capable of adapting to each sector’s unique challenges and requirements. Whether in energy, aerospace, or beyond, RRC consistently delivers exceptional results backed by a deep commitment to quality and efficiency.

RRC has once again demonstrated its leadership in the renewable energy industry, achieving a strong placement in the 2024 ENR (Engineering News-Record) rankings. We are excited to announce that RRC has maintained its position among the top Power, Solar and Wind design firms, ranking #8 in Wind, #9 in Solar, and #32 in Power.

The new rankings released on July 15 build on our previous announcement in which we shared that RRC advanced 34 positions from last year, now standing at #255 among the “Top 500 Design Firms” in the United States. These rankings reflect our specialized capabilities, resilience, and a sustained commitment to quality and innovation in a rapidly evolving renewable energy market.

“Maintaining our high rankings in such a competitive industry is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire RRC team. We are proud to be recognized for our expertise in renewable energy and are committed to continuing to push boundaries in this dynamic industry.” – Mohammed H. Abusalih, Senior Vice President at RRC 

As a full-scope engineering firm, RRC specializes in utility-scale renewable projects for the solar, wind, and energy storage sectors. Our multidisciplinary services include Project Development Engineering, Electrical System Studies, Geotechnical Engineering, Land Surveying, Utility Locating Services, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, SCADA Engineering, Substation Design, Transmission Line Design, Balance of Plant Design, Battery Energy Storage Systems, Field Services, and Construction Material Testing. This broad range of expertise allows us to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to the unique needs of each project.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are transforming the renewable energy landscape, becoming integral to the stability and efficiency of modern power grids. At the forefront of this transformation is RRC’s BESS team, comprising experts Danielle Vournas, Tim Freeburn, Razvan Balea-Nita, and Anis Rahman. In a recent interview, they shed light on the latest industry trends, technological advancements, and the challenges and opportunities they encounter in their pioneering work.

The BESS sector has seen significant evolution over the past five years. The US has seen big jumps in the number of GW installed, the ways BESS is utilized, and the number of technical solutions coming to market. One trend in technology Danielle highlighted is the rise of plug-and-play systems, which simplifies installation by integrating batteries and inverters into a single unit. 

Razvan Balea-Nita highlighted another critical trend: the scaling up of project sizes. “What used to be considered a large project five years ago, around 50 to 100 MW, is now seen as small to medium. Today’s large projects often range between 200 to 300 MW,” he noted. This shift is driving the industry towards larger, more complex installations, necessitating advanced engineering and innovative solutions.

The expansion of BESS projects is also straining transmission infrastructure and land availability. Danielle pointed out the growing issues in transmission planning and the increasing resistance from local communities, often referred to as the NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) effect. These challenges are pushing developers to seek smaller, decentralized generation projects to avoid transmission bottlenecks and land use conflicts. 

Despite not being directly involved in transmission planning, RRC’s team plays a crucial role in addressing other significant challenges. Danielle emphasized the importance of collaboration with developers and EPC contractors to ensure projects meet stringent permitting requirements, particularly in states like California and Texas. Razvan added, “We have experience navigating the complex regulatory landscapes in these regions, which allows us to anticipate and address potential issues proactively.” 

Tim Freeburn noted how codes are being adapted from parallel industry standards, and how quickly new code is evolving for BESS specifically. This adaptation leads to variability in how certain aspects of projects are interpreted and approved by local authorities. “There are a lot of gray areas right now, but as we continue to complete more projects, these codes and standards are becoming clearer, paving the way for smoother approvals and implementations,” he explained. 

Anis pointed out the continuous improvement in the battery industry and innovation in cell chemistry leading to higher power density have resulted in larger BESS projects.  Additionally, the advancements in the inverter industry with higher capacity inverters and PCS, along with storage batteries, have led to the foundation of the current BESS industry. Apart from Li-ion batteries, there are other non-lithium battery technologies gaining momentum in the BESS industry, such as flow batteries and hydrogen storage, among others.  The current market scenario and the global green initiative are driving the industry forward. “Every project can bring new advancements, whether it’s a change in cell chemistry, innovative cable management or progressive plug and play. These innovations require us to be adaptable and quick to implement new solutions,” he said. 

RRC’s BESS team prides itself on its responsiveness and proactive approach. Clients appreciate their ability to deliver high-quality, detailed packages quickly, ensuring projects stay on track. Razvan mentioned, “Our clients value our responsiveness and our ability to meet tight deadlines. We strive to be proactive in anticipating their needs and addressing potential challenges before they become issues.” 

Complete, comprehensive design drawing packages are key to being able to deliver these high-quality, detailed packages on time and on budget; and making permit approvals and field installations quicker and more efficient. RRC’s CAD Design Team brings the experience critical to creating these comprehensive electrical design packages, not often found in this new industry. The BESS CAD Team prides themselves on robust, quality designs and clean, detailed work. They are a team that is constantly advancing their CAD capabilities and modeling processes, to create the most complete and comprehensive drawing packages in the industry. 

The team’s commitment to quality is another standout feature. Danielle described their robust QA/QC process, involving meticulous reviews and cross-discipline collaboration to ensure every aspect of a project is thoroughly vetted. “We take pride in our detailed and high-quality deliverables, which set us apart from competitors,” she said. 

Safety is paramount in BESS projects, and RRC’s team is diligent in adhering to evolving safety standards and codes. Danielle mentioned their close work with fire safety experts to stay abreast of new safety requirements. “We recommend best practices and compliance with the latest NFPA and NEC standards, even when they are not mandated, to ensure the highest safety levels,” she emphasized. 

RRC’s BESS team is at the cutting edge of an industry that is rapidly evolving. Their ability to navigate complex challenges, adopt innovative solutions, and maintain high standards of quality and safety positions them as leaders in the field. As the BESS industry continues to grow, RRC’s expertise and proactive approach will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy storage. 

We are pleased to announce that Marco Garcia has joined RRC as our new Vice President of Innovation and Strategy. Marco will be based out of our corporate office in Round Rock, TX.  

As VP of Innovation and Strategy, Marco will drive the development of new ideas, explore new markets, and think outside the box to offer cutting-edge services, solutions and strategies to our clients. His role will involve overseeing the innovation process across the organization and aligning our innovation strategies with our business objectives.  

Marco brings with him over 20 years of experience in the renewables sector. His professional background is impressive, with a career that spans project development, engineering, and operations at a global level. 

Marco has developed over multiple GW of wind and solar energy projects, with 2 GW in operation in Brazil and the U.S., including some of the top wind projects in Brazil. He has been actively involved in M&A processes, technical due diligence, and commercial agreements, creating substantial value in more than 1 GW of wind and solar projects. 

His expertise in market analysis, risk assessment, and leading cross-functional teams will be crucial as we expand our innovative services and strategies. Marco’s role will involve overseeing the innovation process across the organization, aligning our innovation strategies with business objectives, and driving change to offer new and improved services to our clients. 

“This is an opportunity to work with amazing people and brilliant minds to create value, not just for the company but for our clients, partners and society. I think that we have big dreams here.” – Marco

We are excited to see the innovative solutions Marco will bring to RRC. Please join us in welcoming him to our team! 

RRC Power & Energy is pleased to announce the appointment of Hongbin Huo as the new Vice President of Operations for RRC International. This appointment is a strategic step in our ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and expand our international footprint. 

Hongbin Huo, who has been an integral part of RRC’s success, will now oversee all international operations outside the United States and Canada. In addition to his new role, Hongbin will continue to lead the international Structural Engineering (SE) team, ensuring continuity and leveraging his extensive experience. 

Reporting directly to Bill Bong, President of RRC, Hongbin will play a crucial role in executing our vision of establishing a robust global presence. 

We are confident that Hongbin’s leadership and expertise will drive our international initiatives forward, fostering growth and strengthening our position as a global leader in renewable energy and engineering services. 

We are thrilled to announce that RRC has received the “2024 Best Firm To Work For” award by the Zweig Group. Every year, this prestigious award recognizes Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms with outstanding workplace cultures. It reflects our team’s dedication and the positive, collaborative culture we have cultivated as an organization. 

Our employees made this achievement possible by taking the time to participate in the Zweig Group’s survey and sharing their feedback. This recognition is not just a ranking; it is a testament to our shared values and a tool for actionable improvement.  

This achievement is also testament to the CORE 4 values shared by our team members: 

• Employee Happiness: We prioritize creating a supportive and enriching workplace for our team members. 
• Client Satisfaction: We consistently strive to exceed the expectations of our internal and external clients through innovative solutions and exceptional service. 
• Quality Work: Our commitment to high standards and excellence in every project is unwavering. 
• Above and Beyond: Our dedication to pushing boundaries and achieving outstanding results for our clients and our colleagues sets us apart. 

For more updates and insights, please follow our page on LinkedIn.  

RRC has achieved a significant milestone in the 2024 ENR (Engineering News Record) rankings, moving up 34 positions from last year. Our firm now proudly stands at #255 among the “Top 500 Design Firms” in the United States. This prestigious ranking, which includes all types of engineering and design firms, underscores our dedication to excellence and innovation in the industry.

“This year’s rise in the ENR rankings is a testament to the hard work and expertise of our team,” said Bill Bong, President of RRC. “We are committed to delivering exceptional results for our clients and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in renewable energy engineering.”

As a full-scope engineering firm, RRC specializes in utility-scale renewable projects for the solar, wind, and energy storage sectors. Our multidisciplinary services include Project Development Engineering, Electrical System Studies, Geotechnical Engineering, Land Surveying, Utility Locating Services, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, SCADA Engineering, Substation Design, Transmission Line Design, Balance of Plant Design, Battery Energy Storage Systems, Field Services, and Construction Material Testing. This broad range of expertise allows us to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to the unique needs of each project.

In June, ENR will issue rankings in different categories, including Power, Solar, and Wind, which we will cover separately. We look forward to these upcoming rankings as further opportunities to showcase our specialized capabilities and leadership in these critical areas of renewable energy.

In the intricate web of modern energy infrastructure, the Transmission –Line (T-Line) Engineering team at RRC serves as the conduit linking power generation projects to the grid network. With a focus on engineering overhead or underground high-voltage lines, the team plays a pivotal role in enabling the seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the broader electrical framework. From finding optimal route placements to designing the structures themselves, their goal is to equip clients with the necessary insights and support to navigate the complexities of grid connection. Stamping drawings, offering construction support, and ensuring project completion are all part of the team’s responsibilities. 

Established in 2019, T-Line Engineering is one of the newer services within RRC, yet the team has proven instrumental in expanding the company’s project portfolio. Often engaged at the project’s outset for feasibility analysis or permitting support, they serve as the initial point of contact for many clients. This early engagement not only highlights RRC’s capabilities but also lays the groundwork for additional services, sparking a ripple effect that benefits the entire company.  

Behind the scenes, this small but mighty team boasts an impressive collective background. Each having at least 20 years of industry experience, the team members bring a wealth of knowledge spanning the entire spectrum of transmission line engineering. According to T-Line Engineering Manager, Steve Beilstein, “Every type of structure you could ever imagine, every type of foundation, every type of insulator assembly, pretty much any sort of combination that you see in the world of a transmission line – we’ve done it and we’ve done it from the beginning of the project all the way through construction. Having this level of expertise in one spot is like having a think tank. It’s really special in the industry.“ 

RRC’s clients fall into three main categories: owners, developers, and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) firms involved in renewable energy projects. When working with EPC firms, RRC provides engineering services. On the other hand, owners and developers buy land, pay for equipment, and hire an EPC to build but RRC serves as their engineer instead. In addition to these main client types, the team occasionally provides owners engineering services, offering expert reviews of engineering designs to ensure clients’ confidence in the project’s integrity.  

A typical project undertaken by the T-Line Engineering team at RRC begins with conducting an analysis of the project’s requirements; this includes deciding the best route for the transmission line, considering several factors such as existing infrastructure, environmental impact, and land ownership. Following this preliminary analysis, the team provides plans and profile drawings outlining the placement of overhead lines and structures. These drawings, along with other project specifications, are then integrated into the request for proposal (RFP) package, which is crucial for soliciting bids from EPC contractors.  

As the project progresses, the team collaborates closely with utility companies to ensure seamless integration with the grid. They refine the design, addressing any challenges or unforeseen obstacles that may arise during the construction phase. The team’s role extends into procurement and construction support, and they work closely with contractors to address any discrepancies between the design and on-site conditions, providing engineering solutions as needed. Geotechnical and soil considerations can often present significant and unforeseen challenges in T-Line projects, that can impact construction schedules and safety. The same goes for terrain and environmental and social impacts, which all have to be accounted for. Despite the challenges, the T-Line team is dedicated to supporting its clients and ensuring project success. “We try to work through those challenges with our clients. And once they have gone through that with us, they really appreciate the expertise that our team brings. 

The T-Line team is focused on strategic growth while maintaining quality standards. Steve envisions the team expanding four to five times its current size within five years, emphasizing organic growth aligned with project demands. As the energy sector continues to transform, the RRC Transmission Line team stands at the forefront, shaping a more interconnected future. 

To learn more about RRC, follow us on LinkedIn.  

In the ever-evolving landscape of renewable energy, RRC stands out not just for its pioneering projects but also for its remarkable leaders, one of whom is Danielle Vournas, Engineering Manager for the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) team. With a blend of expertise in renewable energy engineering and a sincere commitment to her team, Danielle is not just a leader; she’s a strong voice for women in STEM and a driving force for innovation at RRC.

Danielle’s journey from a curious undergraduate interested in battery technology to the leader of RRC’s BESS team is a testament to her passion for renewable energy and relentless pursuit of excellence. Danielle has transitioned through various facets of engineering, always with an eye toward sustainability and innovation. “I started working in a commercial battery research lab while pursuing my undergraduate degree [at the Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT)] which continued on through my graduate time,” Danielle recalls. “My role was a blend of chemistry and engineering, which allowed me to explore battery materials and cells down to the atomic level, design and build innovative cell construction and test fixtures, perform forensic analysis on failed commercial cells, and sometimes light things on fire.”

With a bachelor’s degree [from OIT] in renewable energy engineering and a master’s degree in computer and electrical engineering from Portland State University, Danielle’s educational journey laid a solid foundation for her career. Her graduate thesis work designing control systems for magnetically geared wind turbines led her to a stint at Jacobs Engineering designing upgrades for hydroelectric control systems and writing PLC code to control industrial waste processes at a semiconductor chip manufacturer. While these experiences were rewarding, her experiences working with batteries resonated more, and her journey to find her next role in batteries led her to RRC.  

Under Danielle’s guidance, the BESS team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in battery storage and renewable energy is a source of pride for RRC. “Our work is contributing to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, and that’s worth celebrating every day,” says Danielle, encapsulating the essence of the BESS team’s mission and RRC’s commitment to renewable energy.

Danielle’s approach to leadership is both inspiring and practical, marked by empathy, inclusivity, and a steadfast focus on professional growth and team cohesion. “I try to lead with empathy as much as possible,” Danielle shares, underscoring her philosophy of meeting her team members where they are, to foster an environment where everyone can thrive. “Being a consultant in a sector that is this nascent can be chaotic, and I see the stress of that roll through my team. But the crucible of new technology, new codes, and unpredictability of players also creates great opportunities for growth in the right people. My team is made up of those people; and we are going to continue to see great things from them.”

As a woman in engineering, Danielle navigates her career with a blend of tenacity and insight. She emphasizes the significance of fostering a supportive community for women in engineering, advocating for initiatives within RRC to empower female engineers. Her vision extends to cultivating a culture of mentorship and networking, aiming to bridge the gender gap in the engineering domain. “I want to acknowledge that I stand on the shoulders of many that came before me, who worked in environments and companies far less friendly to women. While I believe the landscape has improved, sometimes it is still hard to be one of the few, sometimes the only, woman at the table. As I continue to develop as a leader, I want to use that platform anyway I can to support women in STEM.”

Under Danielle’s leadership, RRC’s BESS team has more than doubled in size and that growth will continue. Their growing experience and capabilities have made them a respected and valued voice in the industry, and the continued arc of their development promises great things ahead. Her ability to drive innovation while fostering a culture of empathy and inclusivity is what makes Danielle a true leader.