Solarization Specialist - Technical Support for Energy Demand Assessments in selected Healthcare Centers in Guyana and Suriname

Organizational Context

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. We are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

Job Purpose

The Solarization Specialist will provide technical support for energy demand assessments in selected healthcare centers in Guyana and Suriname. This role is crucial for ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply through solar energy, particularly in remote and underserved areas. By improving electricity access, the specialist will directly contribute to enhancing the quality, accessibility, and reliability of healthcare services for children. This includes supporting primary healthcare, immunization services, and ensuring continuity of care during emergencies. The position aims to address challenges related to limited data on energy demand, costs, delivery models, and long-term sustainability of solar energy solutions in healthcare facilities.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive energy demand assessments for selected primary healthcare centers in Guyana and Suriname, focusing on current and future needs for essential services. Analyze existing energy infrastructure, identify gaps, and evaluate the potential for solar energy integration. Develop detailed technical specifications and recommendations for solarization projects, considering factors such as system size, component selection, and installation requirements. Provide expert technical advice on solar energy technologies, including photovoltaic systems, battery storage, and associated balance-of-system components. Support the development of cost estimates, delivery models, and long-term operational and maintenance (O&M) plans for solar energy systems. Collaborate with local stakeholders, including government ministries, healthcare facility staff, and potential implementing partners, to ensure project feasibility and sustainability. Prepare technical reports, presentations, and other documentation to communicate findings and recommendations to UNICEF and relevant partners. Contribute to UNICEF's broader strategy of scaling up sustainable energy integration into program priority areas, such as health, WASH, and education, to achieve positive social and climate benefits for children.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of professional experience in renewable energy, with a focus on solar photovoltaic systems. Experience in conducting energy assessments, system design, and project implementation, preferably in developing countries or challenging environments. Familiarity with the healthcare sector and its energy needs is an asset.

Skills

Solar energy systems design and implementation, Energy demand assessment, Technical report writing, Project management, Stakeholder engagement, Renewable energy technologies, Cost-benefit analysis, Problem-solving, Communication skills, Data analysis, Familiarity with healthcare infrastructure, Sustainability planning

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