Interview
ENEOS Renewable
Energy Management Corporation
O&M Management Department
Team-1
Ai Nojo
Renewable Energy
※ Company names and affiliations in the article are as of the time of publication
ENEOS Renewable
Energy Management Corporation
O&M Management Department
Team-1
Ai Nojo
It’s been just over three years since I joined the company. I started as a project manager securing sites and planning construction for the development of new solar and wind power plants. Now I’m involved in plant operations management. This a varied job that involves everything from scheduled repairs and preventive maintenance of facilities and equipment to support safe and stable plant operation, to responding to problems that arise when a natural disaster strikes or something breaks. I’m in constant cooperation with OM (operation and maintenance) companies and on-site office staff.
Solar and wind, while both renewable sources, use different mechanisms for generating electricity, so knowledge of the facilities and equipment of each type is necessary. Also, setting up construction work to repair damages near power plant facilities caused by a typhoon or other natural disaster requires civil engineering knowledge. So, whenever I have a question or feel uncertain—or even to be self-driven in my work—I try to venture freely into other fields of expertise and communicate proactively with other professionals and staff. But the most important thing, I think, is managing the plants so that operations run smoothly and that plants have a satisfying relationship with their communities.
The duration of a development project from start to finish is typically quite long, about 3 to 5 years for solar and 5 to 10 years for wind. I get attached to the projects I work on, so my goal for now is to take over the operations management position for a power plant I helped develop as project manager and to be involved in managing its maintenance and promoting community relations after its completion. To do that, I have to keep building knowledge and experience and increase my skill set.
How do you spend your free time?
I’m the kind of person who likes a balance between indoor and outdoor activities. When I’m off work, I like to watch a movie, see a show, or go trekking. One of my mountain buddies works in a similar industry, so when hiking we chat about recent developments while being mindful to maintain the confidentiality of our respective companies. Our time together is meaningful.
I’m committed to doing my part so that ENEOS Renewable Energy’s power plants continue to operate in a safe and stable manner and as good citizens of their local communities. I also strive to be thoughtful in my response to input and requests from our business partners and community members. Please do not hesitate to share your thoughts with us.
