NEI Electric Power Engineering, Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

NEI Electric Power Engineering, Inc. is a multidisciplinary consulting firm specializing in high-voltage electrical infrastructure. Established in 1982, the company is headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado, and has grown to employ over 300 professionals. NEI offers comprehensive engineering services essential to the design, optimization, and maintenance of power generation, transmission, and distribution systems. Their expertise spans various sectors, including renewable energy, utilities, data centers, and industrial applications.

Mission and Vision

NEI is committed to delivering innovative and reliable electrical solutions that advance the electrical power grid. Their mission is to provide top-tier electrical solutions, designing and maintaining reliable high-voltage infrastructures across various industries for the next generation.

Industry Significance

With over 40 years of experience, NEI has established itself as a significant player in the power systems engineering industry. Their involvement in large-scale projects and recognition in industry rankings underscore their impact and reputation. For instance, NEI was ranked 15th among the Top 40 Electrical Design Firms in 2024, with a revenue of $65.9 million, marking a 36.7% increase from the previous year.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

NEI focuses on delivering comprehensive engineering solutions that ensure the reliability, efficiency, and sustainability of electrical power systems. Their strategic objectives include expanding their presence in renewable energy sectors, enhancing grid modernization efforts, and providing end-to-end services from design to commissioning.

Areas of Specialization

Renewable Energy: Design and implementation of photovoltaic (PV) systems, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and wind collection systems.

Utility Substations: Engineering and design of substations up to 500kV, including protective relaying schemes and system commissioning.

Transmission and Distribution: Design of overhead and underground transmission lines, ensuring efficient power delivery.

SCADA and Automation: Development of real-time data and communication networks for enhanced system monitoring and control.

Key Technologies Utilized

NEI employs advanced technologies such as 3D modeling, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to optimize design processes and system performance.

Primary Markets Targeted

NEI serves a diverse clientele, including:

Renewable Energy Developers: Companies involved in solar, wind, and energy storage projects.

Utility Providers: Investor-owned utilities, cooperatives, and municipalities.

Industrial Clients: Data centers, manufacturing facilities, and other industrial operations requiring robust power systems.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a privately held company, NEI Electric Power Engineering has not publicly disclosed detailed funding histories or recent funding rounds. The company has experienced significant growth, as evidenced by its ranking on the 2025 Hot Firm List, where it was recognized as the 16th fastest-growing architecture, engineering, and construction firm in North America.

Financial Performance

In 2024, NEI reported a revenue of $65.9 million, reflecting a 36.7% increase from the previous year.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects and Milestones

NEI is involved in several notable projects, including:

Renewable Energy Projects: Design and implementation of large-scale solar and wind energy systems.

Utility Substation Upgrades: Engineering and design of high-capacity substations to enhance grid reliability.

Transmission Line Projects: Design and construction of transmission lines to support expanding power needs.

Anticipated Milestones

While specific project timelines are not publicly disclosed, NEI continues to expand its project portfolio, aiming to complete several large-scale renewable energy projects and utility infrastructure upgrades in the coming years.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

NEI has developed proprietary methodologies in SCADA system design and implementation, enhancing real-time monitoring and control capabilities for clients.

Significant Scientific Methods

The company employs advanced power system analysis techniques, including load flow studies, fault analysis, and transient stability assessments, to ensure system reliability and performance.

AI-Driven Capabilities

NEI integrates machine learning algorithms into SCADA systems to predict equipment failures and optimize maintenance schedules, thereby reducing downtime and operational costs.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Clifton Oertli, MS, MBA, PE: President & CEO. Clifton leads NEI with a focus on delivering high-quality power engineering solutions. He has been with the company since 2011 and has been instrumental in its growth and strategic direction.

Carson Bates, PhD, PE, P. Eng: Chief Engineer – Power Systems. Carson oversees technical aspects of power systems engineering, contributing to various projects across NEI’s portfolio.

Ryan Brick, PE: Director – Renewable Civil. Ryan leads civil design and permitting support for renewable facilities, utility substations, and transmission lines.

Tanner Bryant, MSEE, PE: Director – BESS. Tanner heads the Battery Energy Storage Systems team, ensuring the successful execution of BESS projects.

Vanessa Cantelmi, PE: Director – Renewable Development. Vanessa leads a multidisciplinary team in the development of renewable energy projects, including PV, BESS, and wind.

Leadership Changes

Recent additions to the leadership team include:

Paul Corey: Joined as a partner in 2023, bringing extensive experience to the company.

John Gerlach: Retired in 2022 after years of dedicated service.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The electrical engineering services market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy integration, grid modernization, and infrastructure development. Companies like NEI are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends due to their expertise and comprehensive service offerings.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the market include:

McLean Engineering: Specializes in electrical engineering services with a focus on power systems.

Damotech: Provides warehouse safety solutions, including pallet rack repair services.

Bartlett & West: An engineering firm offering planning, design, and construction services.

BGC Engineering: A consulting firm specializing in geotechnical and environmental engineering.

ISQ: Provides engineering services across various sectors.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

NEI has established strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including utility providers, renewable energy developers, and technology vendors, to enhance service delivery and expand its market reach.

Operational Insights

NEI's integrated approach, combining electrical, civil, and structural engineering expertise, allows it to offer comprehensive solutions that address complex power system challenges. This multidisciplinary capability differentiates NEI from competitors who may specialize in narrower service areas.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

NEI plans to:

Expand Renewable Energy Services: Increase involvement in solar, wind, and energy storage projects.

Enhance Grid Modernization Efforts: Develop and implement advanced grid solutions to improve reliability and efficiency.

Leverage Technological Innovations: Integrate emerging technologies, such as AI and machine learning, into service offerings.

Future Business Directions

The company aims to strengthen its position in the renewable energy sector, capitalize on infrastructure development opportunities, and continue to provide innovative solutions that meet evolving energy demands.

Opportunities for Expansion

Potential areas for growth include: