Solar Project Developer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Project-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 client is seeking a Solar Project Developer in Sandton, South Africa. The role combines strategic market engagement with on-site due diligence across the full project lifecycle, from site prospecting to securing land rights, permits and off-take agreements.

The ideal candidate will have strong financial acumen, excellent negotiation skills and deep knowledge of the SA solar value chain and REIPPPP/NERSA regulations. Expect hybrid work with significant stakeholder interaction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, Law or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in project development, solar PV focus in SA.
• Proven track record from origination to financial close.
• Deep knowledge of SA regulatory environment (REIPPPP, NERSA).
• Strong solar project economics, finance and PPA structures.
• Excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing hybrid work with client meetings and site visits.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for utility-scale and commercial solar PV projects.
• Conduct feasibility studies including resource assessments, grid interconnection and environmental considerations.
• Lead negotiation and acquisition of land leases or purchase agreements.
• Secure permits, licenses and approvals from government/regulatory bodies.
• Develop and negotiate PPAs with off-takers.
• Build relationships with landowners, authorities, financiers and stakeholders.
• Prepare project development budgets and manage costs.
• Collaborate with EPC teams to ensure viability and timelines.
• Conduct market analysis to identify solar sector trends.

Skills

Solar PV

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Financial acumen

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree (Engineering/Business/Finance/Law)

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent developer of renewable energy projects, is seeking a proactive and experienced Solar Project Developer to identify, evaluate, and secure new solar energy opportunities across South Africa . This hybrid role, based in Sandton , requires a blend of strategic market engagement and on-site due diligence. You will be responsible for the entire project development lifecycle, from initial site prospecting and feasibility studies to securing land rights, permits, and crucial off-take agreements. The ideal candidate possesses strong financial acumen, excellent negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of the solar value chain and South African energy regulations. This role demands significant interaction with landowners, local authorities, utilities, and potential investors, requiring both remote coordination and in-person meetings.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess potential sites for utility-scale and commercial solar PV projects.


• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, including resource assessments, grid interconnection evaluations, and environmental impact considerations.


• Lead the negotiation and acquisition of land leases or purchase agreements.


• Secure necessary permits, licenses, and approvals from relevant government and regulatory bodies.


• Develop and negotiate Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with off-takers.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including landowners, community leaders, government officials, and financiers.


• Prepare project development budgets and manage associated costs.


• Collaborate with engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) teams to ensure project viability and timelines.


• Conduct market analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the solar sector.


• Manage project development risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, Law, or a related field.


• A minimum of 5 years of experience in project development, with a significant focus on solar PV projects in South Africa.


• Proven track record of successfully bringing solar projects from origination to financial close.


• In-depth knowledge of the South African regulatory environment, including the REIPPPP framework and NERSA regulations.


• Strong understanding of solar project economics, finance, and PPA structures.


• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.


• Demonstrated ability to manage a hybrid work schedule effectively, including client meetings and site visits.


• Proficiency in project management tools and techniques.


• Ability to build consensus and manage complex stakeholder relationships.


• A proactive approach to problem-solving and a results-oriented mindset.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a project-based bonus structure that rewards successful development outcomes. This hybrid role provides flexibility in managing your workload while ensuring critical face-to-face interactions. You will receive a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a leading renewable energy developer are abundant. Join us in driving the growth of clean energy in South Africa and contribute to a sustainable future.