This is how I did it: project management in sustainable energy projects

Jyrki emphasises that the key to the project manager’s job is the ability to understand the different areas and integrate them into a smooth whole. His projects are often complex energy projects that combine technology, economics and environmental requirements. “In this job, you need to have a good understanding not only of the technical solutions and economic realities, but also a genuine understanding of the needs of the customer,” he stresses. “And that’s what professionalism is all about.”

Technical expertise ensures high quality

Technology and energy efficiency solutions are constantly evolving areas, which is why the project manager needs to be technically up to date with the latest solutions and applications. Over his years of experience, Jyrki has developed a broad knowledge of energy and building technologies. His background in HVAC technology makes him an exceptional project manager, able to steer energy projects with confidence.

Jyrki is not just content to manage the project from a distance, but is constantly involved to ensure that all technical solutions work as planned. A project manager must manage the whole project to achieve a successful outcome. For example, there are tasks to be coordinated when combining solar energy and building automation systems, which are often challenging tasks. “The technology must work seamlessly to provide our customers with solutions that meet both energy efficiency and sustainability requirements,” says Jyrki. This technological precision and commitment to quality is one of the reasons why LeaseGreen’s projects consistently achieve excellent results.

Leadership skills to manage critical challenges

In addition to technical skills, energy projects require leadership skills and the ability to react quickly to changing situations. Projects are often complex, involving the coordination of different systems and technologies. Jyrki is known as a project manager who is able to keep all parts of a project under control even in tight situations.

Jyrki recalls a project where a water mass unexpectedly got loose when drilling a geothermal system. Without immediate intervention, the situation could have led to serious delays and cost increases. “Reactivity and problem-solving skills are absolutely essential in such projects,” explains Jyrki. This ability to see problems and solve them proactively is exactly what makes him one of the most trusted project managers in the energy sector. “In an organisation like ours, where efficiency and customer satisfaction go hand in hand, these skills are vital.”

Financial management keeps the project on a sustainable footing

LeaseGreen is known for not only designing and implementing energy efficiency projects, but doing it in a way that makes economic sense. Financial management is therefore a critical part of any project and this is where Jyrk’s professionalism comes into its own again. His ability to control costs and keep projects on budget is a major factor in why clients can have confidence that projects will proceed in a financially sustainable manner.

But experience has taught Jyrki the importance of being prepared for anything. “It’s important for a project manager to manage the budget carefully, but also to be prepared for the unforeseen costs that can arise in energy projects. When building a project budget, I always take into account unexpected costs,” he says.

Jyrki recalls an incident where an old oil tank was found in the ground during a project. This caused unexpected extra costs for the housing association. The quick reaction of the project organisation saved the housing association from significant additional costs. Proactive budgeting made it easier to maintain finances during the project. “This serves as a great example of how financial management is not just about monitoring costs, it is also about anticipating and preparing for the unexpected,” he points out. “Proactive housekeeping is one of the key drivers behind a reputable company: projects are not only completed on time, but also on budget.”

Managing people as part of a successful project

Leadership is not limited to technical details or financial management – it also extends to managing people. Jyrk’s success as a project manager is also largely due to his ability to create a smooth collaboration between the different actors involved. He understands that every project is the result of many people working together. “Clear and open communication is the key to a successful project. We need to ensure that each team member and subcontractor knows exactly what is expected of them and within what timeframe,” he says.

One important part of Jyrki’s management style is openness. He does not shy away from difficult conversations, but confronts challenges as they arise. “On one project, the contractor’s quality of work was not initially up to standard, but instead of letting the situation deteriorate, I stepped in immediately and ensured that the quality was corrected quickly – with no major repercussions to ensure that the client always received a high-quality end result.”

Quality comes from professionalism

Quality and reliability are core values for LeaseGreen’s customers and Jyrki is a strong advocate of these principles. His technical precision, effective project management and financial expertise ensure that projects deliver sustainable added value and meet customer expectations.