Project Development Manager - Energy Storage

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Project Development Manager specializing in energy storage to drive opportunities in South Africa's renewable sector, based in Port Elizabeth or remote. You will lead feasibility studies, permitting, PPAs, and financial close, coordinating with engineering, finance, and legal teams.

The role offers remote work within SA and exposure to cutting-edge storage technologies. Join a growth-focused team shaping the energy transition with impactful, long-term projects

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, or Business.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 6+ years in renewable energy project development with energy storage focus.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess energy storage project sites.
• Conduct feasibility studies: technical, economic, regulatory.
• Develop budgets and timelines for project development.
• Negotiate PPAs, land leases, and key agreements.
• Secure permits, licenses, and regulatory approvals.
• Build relationships with landowners and authorities.
• Collaborate with engineering, finance, and legal teams.
• Prepare investment memos for senior management.
• Monitor market trends and regulatory changes.
• Manage external consultants and advisors.

Skills

Financial modeling

Project management

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Energy storage

PPA negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Finance / Business

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively expanding its footprint in the renewable energy sector and is looking for a dynamic Project Development Manager specializing in energy storage solutions, to be based in or near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This critical role involves identifying, evaluating, and securing new project opportunities, with a particular focus on battery energy storage systems (BESS). You will manage the entire development pipeline, from initial site assessment and feasibility studies to securing permits, negotiating power purchase agreements (PPAs), and bringing projects to financial close. This is a key position for driving innovation and growth in one of the most exciting areas of the energy transition in South Africa . The role demands a blend of technical understanding, commercial acumen, and strong negotiation skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for new energy storage projects.
• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, including technical, economic, and regulatory analyses.
• Develop and manage project development budgets and timelines.
• Lead the negotiation and finalization of PPAs, land leases, and other key project agreements.
• Secure all necessary permits, licenses, and regulatory approvals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landowners, local communities, and government authorities.
• Collaborate with internal engineering, finance, and legal teams throughout the development process.
• Prepare investment memos and present project proposals to senior management and investment committees.
• Stay abreast of market trends, policy changes, and technological advancements in energy storage.
• Manage relationships with external consultants, legal counsel, and financial advisors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in project development within the renewable energy sector, with a significant focus on energy storage.
• Demonstrated experience in successfully developing and financing energy projects through to financial close.
• Strong understanding of energy storage technologies (e.g., Lithium-ion, flow batteries) and grid integration challenges.
• Proven ability to negotiate complex contracts, including PPAs and land agreements.
• Excellent financial modeling, market analysis, and commercial assessment skills.
• Strong understanding of the South African energy policy and regulatory landscape.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid and retirement savings options. This role provides the opportunity to work remotely from anywhere within South Africa , offering unparalleled flexibility. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of energy storage in the region and gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies. Opportunities for professional growth and development are abundant within this expanding sector.