Technical Specialist, Data & Modelling Systems (Retainer) - Readvertised at UNOPS

The Technical Specialist, Data & Modelling Systems under the supervision of the Head, Energy Transition Planning & Energy Efficiency, will be responsible for developing a data visualization and online modelling platform for SEforALL Energy Systems Model (SEM) – an in-house energy transition planning based OSeMOSYS (implemented in python language). The role will also be expected to support the unit on power system and network analysis using PyPSA (Python for Power System Analysis). The Technical Specialist would be expected to support the unit on energy transition planning projects globally on aspects related to technical coordination with clients, policy analysis, drafting of reports and delivery of capacity building workshops.

The Consultant's overall responsibilities include:
 

• Develop SEM online data visualization and online modelling platforms and support the integration of various economic, energy and climate modelling systems to the platform.
• Establish internal and external data collection and warehousing protocols and templates.
• Function as a technical expert of power system and network analysis and establish the use of PyPSA within the energy transition planning unit.
• Support and advise on energy and climate modelling exercises and related tasks for developing energy transition and investment planning or decarbonization pathways.
• Undertake energy transition related research, data collection and country diagnostics (policy, institutional and technology).
• Undertake policy analysis related to energy transition pathways/plans.
• Support the drafting and related tasks for developing energy transition pathways or plans.
• Support the project lead to coordinate and liaise with project stakeholders, partners and consultants at global and country level for identified projects.
• Collaborate with the unit on capacity building and training workshop for identified global and country projects.

Education/Experience/Language requirements:

Education

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in engineering, economics, mathematics, energy, environment, statistics or a related field.
• A First Level University Degree (Bachelor degree of equivalent) in engineering, economics, mathematics, energy, environment, statistics or a related field with an additional two years of experience may be accepted in lieu of the Master's degree.

Work Experience

• A Minimum of five (5) years of hands-on experience of developing python language-based energy system models, in particular PyPSA/OSeMOSYS or similar is required.
• Demonstrated experience of developing energy transition pathways or power systems models, particularly in developing countries is required.
• Experience in energy modelling systems and interlinking of economic and climate models and having a good knowledge of various tools available is desirable.
• Experience in developing data visualization and an online platform for energy system models is desirable.
• Solid skills of Python, R or other programming languages to modify or update energy model script, demonstrated examples of such skill would be considered as an advantage.
• Advanced knowledge of energy transition and net-zero concepts relating to policies, strategies, technologies and awareness of the major global players and initiatives is an asset.
• Excellent knowledge of modelling power sector decarbonization pathways, and knowledge of other sectors such as industries, transport, building and agriculture decarbonization modeling experience would be considered as an asset.
• Language Requirements
• Fluency in English is required.