Where Passion Meets Precision: Embracing Technical Intricacies in EfW

Meet Andrew, Lead Commissioning Engineer in Ramboll’s APAC Energy team, whose passion for technical intricacies drives his work across the full lifecycle of energy-from-waste projects.

Q: Could you tell us more about your role and what drew you to this field?

AD: I serve as the Lead Commissioning Engineer within the Energy team for the APAC region. In my capacity as a technical advisor, I ensure that projects are delivered in full compliance with legislative requirements and contractual obligations. My expertise spans across all phases of project development, from feasibility studies to commercial operation, enabling me to provide comprehensive support throughout the project lifecycle.

I commenced my career in the Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) operations sector before transitioning to the Energy-from-Waste (EfW) industry a decade ago. My interest in EfW was sparked by the potential to convert waste products, which would otherwise be relegated to landfills, into clean energy.

Q: What attracted you to join Ramboll?

AD: I had the opportunity to work alongside Ramboll while they assisted my previous employer as the owner's engineer on a project in the UK. I was highly impressed by their team's proficiency, technical expertise, and ethical standards. When the opportunity to join Ramboll presented itself, I eagerly accepted it to support the first large-scale energy-from-waste project in Australia.

Q: Can you tell us what you enjoy the most about your job?

AD: The aspect of my position that I enjoy the most is the technical intricacies involved. I am passionate about delving into the details to gain a thorough understanding of a subject before providing informed advice. My attention to detail is integral to my approach and expertise.

One notable project with great technical intricacies is the Kwinana Energy Recovery project, for which Ramboll is serving as the owner's engineer. As part of the owner's engineering team, I am responsible for advising the client on technical matters to help the client successfully deliver the first large-scale energy-from-waste project in Australia.

Q: What has been your proudest career achievement?

AD: One of the proudest moments of my career was when I was the technical lead on an energy-from-waste feasibility study. As part of this project, I completed sensitivity analysis related to the effects of inaccurately forecasting feedstock changes and how these errors could impact the capacity diagram, as well as the overall impacts on a facility’s process and financials of the project.

Utilizing this experience, I submitted the abstract for a presentation “the importance of accurate capacity diagrams for successful design and operation” which ultimately led to me being awarded the WMRR's second Young Professionals (YPs) scholarship. In this presentation, I delved into the technical intricacies involved in constructing an accurate capacity diagram and explore the consequences on both processes and finances for an energy-from-waste facility when the capacity diagram is improperly created.

Q: How have you grown professionally since joining our team and how did Ramboll and your managers support you with your development?

AD: Ramboll invests significantly in its employees. I have had the privilege of being mentored by leading technical experts from around the globe. The ongoing collaboration with colleagues worldwide enables me to continuously expand my knowledge and refine my skills.

Q: What advice would you give to someone starting their career in your field?

AD: Don't hesitate to ask for advice or feedback from more experienced colleagues. Constructive criticism can help you improve and develop your own skills.