Intern, Power Sector Transformation

Vacancy Announcement

Secretariat of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

IRENA Innovation and Technology Center (IITC)

Publication/Transmission Date\:     23 September 2021

Deadline for Application\:                 7 October 2021 (at midnight, Abu Dhabi Local Time)

Title and Grade\:                                Intern – Power Sector Transformation

Indicative Remuneration\:                  Monthly stipend[1]

Duration of Appointment\:                6 Months with possible extension

Background

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an inter-governmental organisation headquartered in Abu Dhabi, mandated to promote the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. IRENA’s mission is to play a leading role in the ongoing transformation of the global energy systems as a centre of excellence for knowledge and innovation, a global voice of renewable energy, a network hub for all stakeholders and a source of advice and support for countries. At present, IRENA has 166 Members (165 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 18 additional States in the process of accession and actively engaged.

The Agency implements its mandate with the view to sustainable development, increased energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. The IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) is responsible for the provision of the means to accelerate renewable energy technology uptake, considering national conditions of resource endowment, as well as social and economic frameworks. In accordance with the IRENA Statute, activities in this field include\: analysis of renewable energy technology policies; promotion of innovation; dissemination of information and increased awareness; technology overview and assessment of success-failure factors; improved pertinent knowledge and technology transfer; joint research, development and demonstration; and provision of information about the development and deployment of national and international technical standards in relation to renewable energy.

Objectives of the Internship Assignment

The internship post is located in the Power Sector Transformation (PST) team within the IRENA Innovation and Technology Center (IITC). The intern will provide support to the work of this team during 2021 and 2022 in different projects the team is currently working on.

Particular Functions

In line with the objectives outlined above, the intern is expected to perform a range of technical and organizational functions, including but not limited to\:

• Support the power sector transformation team on the testing phase of the IRENA FlexTool 3.0, which is currently under development
• Carry out research on the latest on renewable technologies (e.g., hydropower, solar and wind), flexibility options (e.g., electricity storage technologies, sector coupling) and electricity markets (e.g., new ancillary services to better integrate renewables)
• Support the team with the creation of demand profiles, estimation of the demand-side flexibility potential and hard linking of IRENA tools.
• Support with the organization of webinars and events, document drafting and well as slide decks preparation.

• Performing any other duties as required.

Learning Areas

During the internship period, the successful applicant will develop a deep understanding of the main challenges of the energy transition, including, in particular, issues related to the power sector transformation. The intern will also be able to further develop their skills on modelling tools and numerical analysis, which are closely related to research and analytical thinking.

Timeframe

The internship is for a period of six months commencing on/about 1 November 2021 or as agreed with the intern/sponsor. The exact period will be determined based on the availability of the intern and the needs of the programme. The maximum duration of the internship is nine months, subject to the intern’s continued university enrolment and performance.

Minimum Requirements

• Candidates must have completed an undergraduate degree and be enrolled in a Master's or doctorate programme at a recognized university at the time of application and for the duration of the internship or have recently graduated and is accepted into the internship programme within six months of their graduation.
• Preference is given to candidates studying in the fields of engineering or technology with a proven background on power systems modelling. Proven skills in Python programming will be an advantage.
• Candidates must be fluent in English (both oral and written) and demonstrate excellent writing and communication skills.
• Competencies\: Candidates should demonstrate solid teamwork, planning and organizing, professionalism and communications skills.
• Candidates must be able to work in a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment.
• Candidates should indicate in their cover letter the period of availability.

Internship Conditions

IRENA interns are not considered to be staff members. The selected intern will work remotely on a full-time basis (40 hours per week) as per the working hours of IRENA premises in Bonn, Germany.

For more detailed information about IRENA Internship Programme, please visit the internships section on our recruitment webpage.

Application Procedure

IRENA wishes to encourage applications from female candidates.

Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process