At Energy Toolbase, we provide expert guidance and tailored analysis to help developers and asset owners optimize their solar and energy storage projects. By combining deep industry knowledge with a consultative approach, the team delivers customized proposals that consider complex utility rate structures, net metering rules, and site-specific variables.
Meet Yulia Krivchenkova, our Manager of Professional Services, based in Jensen Beach, Florida. Celebrating her eighth anniversary at Energy Toolbase, Yulia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. In this spotlight, she dives into her new and previous roles, shares insights into new initiatives in the solar and storage space, discusses the benefits of Professional Services, and much more.
Q: You’ve been at Energy Toolbase for 8 years. What roles have you been in?
A: In 2017, I started as a Utility Rates Analyst responsible for maintaining our global rates database and creating custom rates for our users. Two years later, I was promoted to Data Team Manager, taking on leadership of the department to keep the Utility Rates team at the core of the company’s success. In 2023, as we expanded our offerings, I acquired the title of Manager of Consulting and Data, and since then I have transitioned to Manager of Professional Services to grow our Services side of the company.
Q: Tell us about your job responsibilities as Manager of Professional Services.
A: In this role, I am responsible for overseeing the growth of the Solar PV and Energy Storage Site Optimization service, which is designed to develop proposals that assess solar feasibility and recommend optimal PV layouts and energy storage systems. These layouts are tailored to account for net metering regulations, available capacity, highest avoided cost, and other relevant criteria. Since its launch in late 2023, our service has demonstrated significant success, as shown by numerous repeat clients and prominent companies who consistently choose ETB . We are also giving a lot of thought to a new service that enables asset owners to gain comprehensive visibility into site operations, monitor savings, and receive detailed monthly reports prepared by our team of experts.
Q: You’re an expert when it comes to utility rates. Can you explain why accurate rates are so important for proposals and modeling accuracy?
A: From my first day at ETB, it became clear that inaccurate input of rates or associated usage can significantly impact a project’s financial outcome. When initial rates are structured as a workaround, such as blending fixed or demand charges into a single $/kWh value, the true contributions of solar and ESS may be misrepresented, which could potentially result in dangerous decisions. At ETB, we strive for transparency and precision by itemizing rates in detail, tracking the value of exported energy, accounting for demand ratchets, and incorporating daily or hourly pricing into our schedules for maximum flexibility. We highly recommend consulting our experts for guidance whenever clarification or confirmation is needed. Our team is dedicated to excellence; each month, thousands of rates and tariffs are reviewed by our staff, equipping us with extensive expertise and insight.
Q: What are some exciting things you’re working on in your department?
A: Currently, we are engaged in redefining ETB Consulting and its range of services. As the industry continues to evolve and customer requirements become increasingly sophisticated, we need to adapt accordingly. We are evaluating a variety of service packages that clients may select based on their objectives and needs, because we aim to provide flexibility and deliver additional value to our users. We are considering introducing educational offerings to provide individuals, whether they are new to the industry or seeking to further their expertise, with access to relevant knowledge through our department.
Q: What sets Professional Services apart from other industry offerings?
A: A defining characteristic of Professional Services is the dedication and passion demonstrated by each team member. Individuals possess deep expertise in their respective roles and collaborate seamlessly due to strong mutual understanding. This commitment enables the team to approach challenges confidently and achieve successful outcomes. Every member has advanced to their current position through internal promotion, reflecting both ongoing commitment and a drive for excellence within the Professional Services team.
Q: How have recent shifts in the energy landscape influenced the way your team engages with clients and delivers value?
A: We’ve seen major shifts in the energy sector, and now every project starts with a meaningful conversation. We ask the developers and site owners for any specific instructions to ensure our initial proposal meets their needs and that unique perspectives are understood and integrated into our strategies. As experts, we also offer observations on the project and market to add value, often drawing on years of industry experience and up-to-date research. At ETB, we’ve always had a longstanding commitment to transparency, which is why open dialogue is key to building trust and fostering long-term partnerships with clients. This collaborative approach helps us deliver solutions that are not only effective but also tailored to the evolving landscape of the energy industry.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you help clients solve?
A: Our team addresses two primary challenges daily: accurately evaluating energy costs (when managing complex rate structures) and determining the value of energy storage systems (ESS). These areas are closely linked because the effective use of an ESS relies on clear price signals and identifying all potential savings opportunities. Energy storage systems remain a central focus for our team due to their many complexities, nuanced algorithms, and advanced mechanisms. We frequently collaborate across departments to ensure comprehensive responses to our customers’ inquiries and to engage the necessary expertise.
Q: What is a project that you've recently worked on that you're particularly excited about?
A: Our team recently developed a series of proposals for schools in Pennsylvania. It was encouraging to observe in-depth evaluations of solar energy from both economic and environmental viewpoints. We conducted modeling for various photovoltaic array configurations, including standard rooftop installations and large-scale ground-mounted systems. These initiatives were designed to help educational institutions reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and transition towards more sustainable practices. We began by gathering data relevant to each school’s unique energy consumption patterns and infrastructure capabilities. In our assessments, we compared factors such as upfront investment costs, projected long-term savings, state incentives, and grants impact.
Q: What has been your favorite project to work on in your time at Energy Toolbase?
A: My most noteworthy project involved managing an extensive portfolio of sites encompassing various building types. Our team was responsible for evaluating the feasibility of solar and energy storage solutions, considering diverse rate structures from across the country. This experience provided valuable insight into how renewable energy options impact identical load profiles depending on differing rates, showing the importance of assessing each project based on its unique attributes rather than assuming consistent outcomes due to apparent similarities.
Our Professional Services team is here to help developers build smarter, more accurate project proposals. By analyzing site-specific conditions and policies, we recommend solar and storage system designs that are optimized for your site’s unique needs, maximizing both system performance and value. Schedule a call with our team today!
