National Solar Energy Consultant
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) in Sudan is addressing critical public health emergencies exacerbated by conflict, displacement, and economic instability. To strengthen health service delivery and resilience, sustainable energy solutions, particularly solar power, are essential for powering medical equipment, cold chains, laboratories, and facility operations. This consultancy supports WHO's efforts to electrify health facilities under the SHARE and SHIEP projects.
Job Purpose
The National Solar Energy Consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing the resilience and operational capacity of Sudan's health system by ensuring reliable electricity access. This involves conducting comprehensive energy needs assessments in targeted health facilities, evaluating existing infrastructure, and identifying critical energy requirements. The consultant will provide expert technical advice for the planning, design, and installation of solar energy systems, ensuring they are sustainable, reliable, and climate-resilient. The ultimate goal is to improve the delivery of essential health services by overcoming energy-related challenges, thereby contributing to WHO's mission in Sudan. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, project management, and stakeholder coordination to achieve these objectives.
Responsibilities
The National Solar Energy Consultant will be responsible for a range of technical and project management tasks. This includes conducting detailed energy data gathering and needs assessments at health facilities, evaluating existing energy systems, and identifying gaps. The consultant will prepare techno-economic analyses, design solar PV and battery systems, and develop technical specifications and bills of quantities. Support will be provided for the procurement process, including preparing terms of reference and advising on procurement approaches. Furthermore, the role involves technical supervision during installation, ensuring quality control, safety standards, and compliance with contract terms. The consultant will also train facility staff on system operation and maintenance, coordinate with relevant stakeholders, and submit regular progress and final reports detailing achievements, challenges, and recommendations.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in solar energy systems of similar scale, preferably in low-income countries, is required. Proven expertise in preparing technical documents for tendering processes and supervising solar energy projects is essential. Experience in solar electrification of healthcare facilities and familiarity with WHO or similar organizations are desirable.
Skills
• Strong technical expertise in solar energy systems • Proficiency in energy needs assessment and system design • Experience in technical report writing and documentation • Ability to manage and supervise projects • Effective communication and coordination skills • Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications • Fluency in English