Grid Specialist M/F at Voltalia

The successful candidate will have overall responsibility for grid connection activities, which will encompass all aspects of the grid connection process from capacity assessments, MV & HV connection design, engagement with Eskom, and overseeing the implementation of grid connection works.

• Identify and evaluate potential Points of Connection to the regional Distribution or Transmission system where there could be available capacity to connect solar, wind, hydro or storage projects;
• Establish and maintain contacts with Grid Operator and Governmental Agencies related to the grid connections process;
• Manage interconnection process with Grid Operator and relevant authorities;
• Advise the broader development team and providing technical assistance throughout the life cycle of projects;
• Use knowledge of the local legislation and regulations in terms of authorizations and permits, in order to produce guidelines and tools for planning, organizing, executing and controlling the related project activities;
• Analyze the local Grid Code, National Grid Statements and additional information on the aspects that impact overall location strategy for new development projects. Relay the current and evolving connection environment into Power Plant design and Interconnection Infrastructure;
• Analyze and evaluate Grid Connection Offers and technical information for specific projects that impact the Grid Connection Design of the project;
• Coordinate the grid connection application, feasibility review and acceptance process with the Development team;
• Be familiar and be able to calculate the relevant values relating to single line diagrams of an Electrical Network on the network and customer side;
• Evaluate Grid Impact studies in a steady state, dynamic and in transient state of all electrical parameters, performed internally or by third parties;
• Make dynamic models in asynchronous and synchronous wind generators and PV Inverters in simulations to model power flow/stability and frequency response.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor or Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering;
• Professional Engineer registration with ECSA;
• 7+ years’ experience as an Electrical Engineering, with 5+ years’ experience in a project environment working on substations and/or grid-connected renewable energy facilities;
• Knowledge of Digsilent, PSSE, PSCAD or other relevant simulation software;
• Detailed understanding of the South African Grid Codes, regulations and standards that relate to renewable energy projects and connecting/operating these generators within the network;
• Awareness and understanding of the equivalent codes, regulations and standards in the region;
• Knowledge and experience of power systems, grid studies, and grid connection of utility-scale renewable energy projects in South Africa and beyond;
• Experience in negotiating grid connection agreements;
• Understanding and interest in large BESS (beneficial).

Languages:

• English: Fluent
• Local languages, French or Portuguese are a plus.

KEY SKILLS

• Analysis and interpretation ability;
• Availability and sense of responsibility;
• Strong attention to detail, rigorous;
• Self-motivated, dynamic;
• Ability to manage stress and to work under pressure;
• Resilience ability, Proactivity and Initiative spirit;
• Negotiation skills;
• Autonomous with Teamwork skills;
• Good organization level;
• Availability for national and international travels.