Tierra Consulting founder Mennan Yelkenci on the first six months

Launched six months ago, Tierra Consulting Group is a consultancy firm dedicated to Australia’s renewable energy sector. To find out more about the firm’s mission, niche and early successes, we sat down with founder Mennan Yelkenci.

To start off with, what motivated the launch of Tierra Consulting Group?

Having spent 13 years working in the industry, specialising in land access and acquisition for infrastructure projects, I discovered a significant market need for property consultancy services. Combined with the rapid growth of the renewable energy sector, Tierra Consulting Group enjoyed a pretty seamless entry into the market.

This, coupled with my childhood ambition of being an entrepreneur, made it quite an easy decision to launch Tierra Consulting Group with the aim to make an impact in the industry.

What are the firm’s main areas of expertise?

Tierra Consulting Group's success lies in its expertise in land access and acquisition for renewable energy projects. With a deep understanding of the complexities involved, the company excels in identifying and negotiating optimal sites for solar, wind, and energy storage projects. By streamlining the land acquisition process, Tierra ensures the efficient development of renewable energy infrastructure across Australia.

Community engagement is a top priority for Tierra Consulting Group. Recognising that successful renewable energy projects depend on strong relationships with local communities, the company actively involves stakeholders in the planning and development stages. Through thorough consultations, addressing concerns, and incorporating feedback, Tierra ensures that projects align with the needs and aspirations of the areas they serve.

This inclusive approach fosters a sense of ownership and enhances the long-term sustainability of the initiatives.

Tech-driven innovation plays a significant role in our services. We utilise advanced technologies and data-driven solutions to optimise land use, minimise environmental impacts, and maximise project efficiency.

By integrating state-of-the-art tools and methodologies, Tierra Consulting can help ensure that land is utilised sustainably while addressing the unique needs and concerns of local communities. This innovative approach sets a new standard in the industry, positioning Tierra as a pioneer in land and community management practices.

Can you share some examples of project delivered / worked on?

Tierra Consulting has so far worked for a range of battery energy storage and renewable energy projects (solar and wind). Working with leading international developers, we have helped implement a three-stage rollout plan from identifying sites, commencing landowner negotiations, and executing agreements.

As a boutique, how does Tierra Consulting Group ensure it has the broad skillset required to deliver on complex projects?

Strategic partnerships are essential to Tierra’s success. The company collaborates with landowners, local authorities, and indigenous communities to forge mutually beneficial relationships. By leveraging these partnerships, Tierra gains access to prime land and incorporates traditional knowledge and cultural perspectives into project development. This collaborative approach not only enhances project outcomes but also builds trust and goodwill within the communities.

The website mentions that Tierra Consulting Group is focused on ESG. Can you explain how?

Sustainable development is at the core of Tierra Consulting Group's endeavours. The company actively seeks opportunities to enhance biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and promote environmental stewardship. By integrating sustainable practices into every stage of project development, Tierra minimises the ecological footprint of renewable energy projects, leaving a positive impact on the environment.

This commitment to sustainability has earned Tierra the trust and admiration of clients and communities alike.

What are some of the ambitions going forward?

Looking ahead, Tierra Consulting Group remains dedicated to its core focus on land access, acquisition, and community engagement. The company aims to expand its reach and impact by forging strategic partnerships, adopting innovative technologies, and integrating sustainability into its operations.