Power Players Spotlight: Meet Carter ReiffWhat is your approach to helping clients meet their renewable energy goals?
“First, I listen to the needs of the client and their goals for the project. Some like to exceed minimum required thresholds, some focus on being cost effective, some focus on operational needs, etc. It is important to know the goals before getting started on the design of the project.”
What is your favorite source of renewable energy and why?
“I have two. Solar because it can be placed on rooftops and conventionally undevelopable areas to preserve open space and hydroelectric because I’m intrigued by the prospect of utilizing ocean waves to generate power.”
What project is your favorite and why?
“The MPK 21 and 22 Meta campus in Menlo Park. I was able to work with an all-star team for a multi-year and multi-phased campus project. Some interesting aspects of the project include a blackwater system for treatment and water reuse on the site, rooftop solar, walkable green roof on one of the buildings, public park, and hydrology challenges in addition to the regular engineering required for a development project. This project had a little bit of everything and was a great opportunity to expand my experience.”
What’s your favorite solution to a challenge you’ve faced?
“Having an unforeseen field issue come up on a project and negotiating with the City to allow for an atypical solution. The contractor discovered a large joint trench in the center of our proposed 30” storm drain line. After presenting our dilemma, the City allowed us to install a custom-made rectangular “pipe” over the joint trench (equivalent to a 30” pipe) with two 6” gravity pipes running below the joint. No matter the project, it is always important to be creative and flexible when brainstorming solutions.”
Why are you passionate about renewable energy?
“I am passionate about renewable because our society needs to diversify our energy sources. Being solely reliant on any one source of energy can create major challenges.”
Outside of KWRE, what are your favorite hobbies?
“My favorite hobbies include competing in demolition derbies, traveling, golf, and tennis.”
What are you currently reading?
“Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business”
What’s been your favorite moment at KWRE?
“Working with a client to permit and construct the first solar field within a certain jurisdiction. The jurisdiction kept adjusting the goal line for the project, but our team was able to work with the client and jurisdiction to obtain the required permits and construct the project.”