Policy Officer - African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM)

Purpose of Job

The role involves undertaking policy, strategic planning, and managing activities for the operationalization of the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM). The goal is to achieve the strategic objectives of an integrated continental electricity market in Africa and contribute to the AU’s overall goals.

Main Functions

The main functions include:

• Developing and implementing Action Plans for AfSEM in line with AU strategies.
• Planning and organizing meetings of the AfSEM governance structures.
• Providing support to technical committees and decision-makers on AfSEM issues.
• Monitoring and evaluating progress in harmonizing regulatory frameworks.
• Supervising consultancy studies on various aspects of AfSEM.
• Facilitating energy initiatives related to AfSEM.
• Preparing position papers, project proposals, and reports regarding the electricity market.
• Preparing annual budgets for AfSEM implementation.

Specific Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include:

• Strategic planning, including the annual activity plan of the AfSEM governance structures.
• Implementing the AfSEM Action Plan activities and coordinating governance activities.
• Managing activities with AfSEM implementing agencies and cooperation partners.
• Preparing reports, including draft decisions for submission to AU Policy Organs.
• Monitoring developments of the Continental Power System Master Plan (CMP).
• Facilitating information exchange on AfSEM among stakeholders.
• Developing strategic partnerships with AfSEM stakeholders.
• Providing timely quality information and technical advice to the Director of Infrastructure & Energy.
• Preparing proposals for programmes and projects in accordance with the Action Plan.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

Candidates should have:

• A Master’s Degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Energy Systems, or related fields with at least seven (7) years of relevant work experience.
• OR a Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields with at least ten (10) years of relevant work experience.

Required Skills

The expert must have a proven track record in:

• Energy policy analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Understanding the operation of electricity markets at various levels in Africa.
• Analyzing and synthesizing energy policies effectively.
• Facilitating meetings of regional and continental actors.
• Providing high-quality advice for energy sector strategy and projects.
• Building strong relationships within AUC teams and development partners.
• Anticipating project developers’ needs and formulating strategic plans.
• Experience in policy dialogue in the energy sector at the international level.
• Experience working with international development agencies and knowledge of AU systems.
• Proficiency in English; fluency in another AU language is an advantage.