Lead Solar PV Project Developer

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical & retirement benefits

ESOP opportunities

Company vehicle / travel allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Solar PV Project Developer in Randburg to spearhead land identification, feasibility studies, and securing permits for utility-scale solar projects across South Africa. The role requires 8+ years in renewable energy project development, strong negotiation skills, and deep knowledge of SA regulations and interconnection processes.

You will manage the full development lifecycle and collaborate with landowners, government authorities, and utilities to grow the solar

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 8+ years in renewable energy project development, with focus on solar PV.
• Experience acquiring land and entitlements for large-scale energy projects.
• In-depth knowledge of SA energy regulations, grid interconnection procedures, and utility engagement.
• Strong financial modelling and project economics evaluation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify and secure sites for utility-scale solar PV projects through land acquisition, leasing, and option agreements.
• Conduct site assessments including solar resource analysis and interconnection feasibility studies.
• Develop and manage timelines, budgets and development plans to financial close.
• Lead negotiations with landowners, authorities, and stakeholders to secure agreements and permits.
• Interface with EPC teams to ensure designs meet development requirements.
• Build relationships with utilities, grid operators, and regulatory bodies.
• Prepare proposals and presentations for internal and external partners.
• Stay informed about market trends, policy changes, and competitive landscape.
• Manage external consultants and service providers involved in development.

Skills

Project development

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Financial modelling

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree (plus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the renewable Energy industry, is actively seeking a visionary Lead Solar PV Project Developer to spearhead new initiatives from Randburg, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves identifying, evaluating, and securing land for utility-scale solar photovoltaic projects across South Africa. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in project development, strong negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of the solar market landscape, including regulatory frameworks and interconnection processes. You will be responsible for managing the entire development lifecycle, from initial site identification and feasibility studies to securing permits and advancing projects towards financial close. This position requires a strategic thinker with a passion for sustainability and a commitment to driving the growth of clean energy. You will work closely with internal teams and external stakeholders, including landowners, government authorities, and utility companies, to bring impactful solar projects to fruition and contribute to a greener future. Your leadership will be essential in navigating complex challenges and ensuring the successful expansion of our client's solar portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and secure suitable sites for utility-scale solar PV projects through land acquisition, leasing, and option agreements.
• Conduct comprehensive site assessments, including solar resource analysis, environmental impact reviews, and interconnection feasibility studies.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and development plans from inception to financial close.
• Lead negotiations with landowners, local authorities, and other stakeholders to secure necessary agreements and permits.
• Interface with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure project designs meet development requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with utilities, grid operators, and regulatory bodies.
• Prepare compelling project proposals and presentations for internal review and external partners.
• Stay informed about market trends, policy changes, and competitive landscape within the solar energy sector.
• Manage external consultants and service providers involved in the development process.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in renewable energy project development, with a significant focus on solar PV.
• Demonstrated success in acquiring land and securing entitlements for large-scale energy projects.
• In-depth knowledge of solar technology, site assessment techniques, and environmental permitting processes.
• Proven ability to negotiate complex land leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and other development contracts.
• Strong understanding of South African energy regulations, grid interconnection procedures, and utility engagement.
• Excellent financial modeling and project economics evaluation skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to travel domestically as required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead significant projects in the rapidly growing renewable energy sector.
• Allowance for professional development and industry conferences.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.
• Dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Significant contribution to sustainable energy goals.
• Employee stock option plan (ESOP) opportunities.