Annika Shiffer-Delegard
Project Development Associate
Give us a brief overview of your role.
As a Project Development Associate at GSI, I support the advancement of our New York and Pennsylvania portfolios. My work mainly involves managing permitting, interconnection, and environmental processes to help get projects shovel ready. No two days look the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about the role; the constant variety keeps the work dynamic and engaging!
What is the most memorable moment you have had working for GSI?
One of my most memorable experiences was when my colleague Drew and I traveled to the Finger Lakes to finalize project documentation for the Martin and Horning sites. It turned into a whirlwind day of driving between different landowners’ homes, many of whom couldn’t travel themselves, to collect notarized signatures and additional approvals. It felt surreal, almost like a movie, and despite the stress, it was very rewarding to meet with our landowners and play a hands-on role in such an important milestone. We were driving documents back through the night around the holidays – it felt like we were on a rescue mission for solar projects!
What led you to a career in project development and what have you found rewarding from working in the renewables sector?
I’ve always known I wanted to work in sustainability as that’s what I studied in college, but I wasn’t entirely sure what that path would look like. My first role out of school was at another development company working on interconnection. From there, I gradually got more involved in permitting, environmental diligence, and project sale prep, and I quickly realized how much I loved the development process. It’s a field that blends technical knowledge with communication and problem-solving, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling to work in an industry that actively contributes to building a more sustainable future.
Tell us one interesting fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know.
In addition to taking environmental studies, I was also an English major in college. I’ve always had a passion for reading and writing, and I even did a lot of creative writing during university. While I don’t use those skills directly every day, I find that they’re still very applicable, especially when it comes to communication and storytelling in project work.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Living in New York City, I love taking advantage of all the arts and culture the city has to offer. I try to attend theatrical performances and concerts a few times each month. I’m especially drawn to indie music and smaller shows; there’s always something new to explore, and it’s one of the ways I recharge outside of work.
What is one thing you’d like to cross off your bucket list?
I’ve been wanting to travel to Japan for quite some time, and I’m actually planning a trip for next year. It’s been at the top of my list, and I’m really excited about the opportunity to explore the culture, food, and natural beauty of the country.
Rapid Fire Favorites
- Movie: Rear Window
- TV Show: Parks and Recreation
- Book: The Secret History by Donna Tartt
- Musician/Band: Lana Del Rey
- Restaurant (City): Dishoom (London, UK)
- Food: Waffles
- Sports Team: New York Liberty
- City: Paris, France