Solar Energy Specialist

Duties and Responsibilities

The Renewable Energy (solar) Specialist will support the ISA through the collection, analysis, and presentation of data on renewable energy(solar) needs and opportunities specifically in relation to solar energy generation. The Specialist will report to either the Director, Programme or Director, Technology and Innovation and be responsible for the identification of strategic opportunities for ISA in this sector, the negotiation of partnerships with Government and development partners, the preparation of funding proposals, organization and participation in meetings and workshops, and support to the implementation of existing projects, among other tasks.

Role and functions:

Contribute to the establishment of a strategic platform facilitating policy dialogue, transfer, and engagement for solar energy expertise in various countries/regions, including:

• Baseline/situational analysis with identification of needs and opportunities for renewable energy technologies relating to energy in specific countries/regions, analysis of political, institutional, regulatory, economic, and technological factors, identification of barriers to overcome for the expansion of solar energies.
• Comprehensive stakeholder analysis and consultations with other actors in the sector and opportunities for collaboration for ISA, including international donors with actual or potential interest in the renewable (solar) energy sector.
• Support in the drafting of a strategy for significantly expanding its engagement in the renewable energy sector for ISA. Develop and contextualize ISA’s de-risking approach and methodology for small scale solar energy (solar home kits (off-grid); mini-grids (off-grid); rooftop solar PV (on-grid)) and energy efficiency in various locations.
• Assisting government partners to address barriers to investment via a combination of policy and financial de-risking instruments and targeted financial incentives to consumers and key energy market players.
• Supporting business and entrepreneurial skills development and enhancing access to small-scale financing for renewable energy solutions Project development and partnerships in the renewable energy sector for ISA in conjunction with the Finance/Resource Mobilization programme
• Drafting of concept notes and full proposals
• Drafting of a resource mobilization action plan with identification of key donors and partners for renewable energy in various countries/regions.
• Organization and participation in meetings and communication with potential partners and donors; Technical support to the implementation of projects and studies in the renewable energy sector in relation to solar energy.
• Support pre-feasibility studies, site assessments, the drafting of Terms of Reference, and other activities involved in the preparation and implementation of projects in the solar energy sector.
• Oversee and implementation of ISA strategy on solar energy generation. The incumbent will also perform other tasks related to renewable energy and engage in support of ISA’s global and regional solar energy practice as required.

Competencies

Professionalism: Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; able to interact with senior  government and private sector leadership; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed; ability to disseminate information through online platforms, social media and traditional methods.

Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams of diverse staff; training and develop staff; successful counsel and conduct performance management; provide vision and direction to a team and lead the team to undertake innovative work.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Qualifications

Education: Master’s degree or higher in electrical engineering, engineering, power generation/transmission, distribution, solar or renewable energy, civil engineering, or another relevant field. A first level university degree in combination with four additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience: Minimum 8 years of demonstrable experience in the technical area of renewable energy systems, energy access, development infrastructure, power generation, electricity transmission and/or power distribution (on and off grid), project formulation and implementation. Candidates with a first level degree (Bachelor or equivalent) would require an additional four years of directly relevant experience. Experience working with regional/international institutions/private sectors/donors in the sector of renewable energy will be an advantage. Field level project implementation experience is highly desirable. Preference will be given to candidates who have at least 3 years of international experience.

Language and IT skills: The role demands substantial writing and verbal communications skills. As English is the official and working language of the Organization, excellent command of both written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of other languages (e.g. French, Spanish and Arabic) would be an advantage. Satisfactory skills in Outlook, MS Office products, and various ERP systems is highly desirable.

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Qualified candidates must apply for the above mentioned vacancy on-line, through ISA’s

portal Any applicants who have difficulties applying through the online portal should

immediately contact the International Solar Alliance at [email protected].