29 May 2024 Region: Country: South Africa Company: Finance Experience: 6+ About the job As a Grid Specialist, you will be pivotal in successfully integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) projects into the grid infrastructures. You will be responsible for navigating the complex landscape of grid connection processes, regulations, and technical requirements, ultimately contributing to solar energy’s efficient and sustainable growth. Identify and assess potential Points of Connection within the regional Distribution or Transmission system for solar PV projects. Manage the process of obtaining SSEG (Small-Scale Embedded Generation), NERSA (National Energy Regulator of South Africa), and Municipal&Eskom licenses, registrations, and approvals for solar PV projects. Conduct thorough capacity assessments and site evaluations to determine the feasibility of grid integration. Establish and maintain strong relationships with Grid Operators, Governmental Agencies, and other relevant stakeholders involved in the grid connections. Serve as the primary point of contact for all grid-related inquiries and negotiations. Manage the interconnection process with Grid Operators and regulatory authorities, ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and protocols. Facilitate the timely approval and implementation of grid connection works for solar PV projects. Provide technical guidance and assistance to internal teams and external partners throughout the project lifecycle. Offer expertise on grid connection design, grid code compliance, and optimisation strategies. Stay abreast of local legislation, regulations, and grid codes about solar PV grid integration. Interpret and apply regulatory requirements to project planning and execution, ensuring adherence to all legal and safety standards. Prepare comprehensive documentation, reports, and applications required for grid connection approvals and permits. Maintain accurate records of grid connection activities, milestones, and compliance status. Conduct detailed analysis of grid impact studies, assessing the potential electrical parameters and implications of solar PV integration on the grid network. Collaborate with engineering teams to develop mitigation strategies and solutions. Stay updated on emerging trends, technologies, and best solar PV grid integration practices. Share knowledge and insights with colleagues and participate in training programs to enhance skills and competencies. Perform comprehensive technical compliance screening of solar PV projects, assessing design specifications, equipment configurations, and operational parameters. Identify potential compliance issues, develop mitigation strategies, and collaborate with engineering teams to address technical challenges. Any other job duties associated with this role. PERSON DESCRIPTION Experience: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or equivalent. A minimum of six years of experience in the solar industry, including at least three years of specific experience in grid connection planning and applications. Strong understanding of South African regulatory requirements, including SSEG, NERSA regulations, and Municipal&Eskom licensing procedures. In-depth understanding of grid infrastructure, regulations, and grid codes. Proven track record of successful grid connection projects, with a focus on renewable energy technologies. Strong technical proficiency in grid connection design, power systems analysis, and simulation tools. Knowledge and experience in power systems, grid studies, and grid connection of utility-scale renewable energy projects in South Africa and beyond. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills. Valid driver’s license and willing to travel. Specific attributes: Indepth understanding of Grid code compliance and Small-Scale Embedded Generation application process in various municipalities Proven record of accomplishment for successful SSEG application approvals Excellent attention to detail Grid code compliance on utility-scale projects Excellent planning skills What Does Success Look Like? By month 3: I will have established strong relationships with key Grid Operators, Governmental Agencies, and stakeholders involved in the grid connections process, fostering effective communication channels and understanding. I will have navigated the initial stages of obtaining SSEG, NERSA, and Municipal&Eskom licenses, registrations, and approvals for ongoing solar PV projects, ensuring compliance and progress. By month 6: I will be recognised as a subject matter expert in solar PV grid integration within the organisation, sought out for guidance and insights by internal teams and external partners. I will have successfully facilitated the approval and implementation of grid connection works for at least two solar PV projects, demonstrating proficiency in managing the interconnection process. By month 12: I can independently oversee and manage the entire grid integration process for new solar PV projects from start to finish, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding and execution of regulatory requirements, technical assessments, and stakeholder engagements. I will have contributed to developing and implementing optimisation strategies for grid connection design and compliance, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of solar PV projects within the organisation. Core Values: We hire, reward, and recognise our team against these values. It is imperative that you believe in these values and demonstrate them consistently. We are passionate and proud of what we do. We communicate candidly, especially when it is difficult We take the initiative, share our mistakes, and grow together We are dependable and take accountability No one person is bigger than the solution – no egos. #J-18808-Ljbffr