Consultant for Technology Needs Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The job is associated with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre, which are dedicated to promoting sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been a leading global environmental authority, advocating for sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals committed to addressing global environmental challenges. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices by providing leadership and encouraging partnership in caring for the environment. The organization focuses on various areas, including climate change, ecosystems, and resource efficiency, and works with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement its initiatives.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) project, which aims to identify and prioritize environmentally sound technologies for climate change mitigation and adaptation. The consultant's primary responsibility will be to develop a detailed Project Concept Note (PCN) for the On-Grid Solar Farm technology identified as a priority by Tonga. This involves transforming a project idea from the Technology Action Plan into a comprehensive concept that can attract funding for implementation. The consultant will collaborate closely with the national TNA team and the TNA Coordinator to ensure that the project aligns with national sustainable development goals and addresses barriers to technology deployment. The role requires a deep understanding of climate change strategies and the ability to articulate the project's objectives, outputs, and performance indicators effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Collaborate with the national TNA team to develop a detailed Project Concept Note for the On-Grid Solar Farm technology.
• Conduct a thorough analysis of the technology needs and barriers to implementation in Tonga.
• Prepare all necessary documentation and annexes required for the Project Concept Note.
• Engage with stakeholders to gather insights and ensure the project aligns with national priorities.
• Develop a comprehensive Technology Action Plan that outlines activities and enabling frameworks to facilitate technology transfer and adoption.
• Summarize policy-relevant actions in user-friendly policy briefs.
• Work closely with the TNA Coordinator and Regional Centre to ensure the project meets funding agency requirements.
• Deliver a final Project Concept Note that meets the expectations of the national TNA team and funding entities.

Required Qualifications:
The contractor must possess at least a postgraduate degree in a relevant field related to energy or environmental science. If holding a bachelor's degree, a minimum of 9 years of relevant work experience is required, while a master's degree requires at least 7 years of experience. The consultant should have a minimum of 5 years of experience specifically in the energy sector, particularly with solar farms, and in developing project plans. Experience working with international agencies or organizations is highly desirable. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, along with proven analytical capabilities and excellent writing skills. Familiarity with national climate change strategies, technologies, and policies is crucial, as well as an understanding of the country's development objectives and sector policies.

Educational Background:
A postgraduate degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, energy management, or a related discipline is required. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have extensive work experience to compensate for the lack of a higher degree. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles of sustainable development and climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.

Experience:
Candidates must have significant experience in the energy sector, particularly in solar technology and project development. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in project design and implementation is required, with additional years of experience preferred for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience in international settings or with organizations focused on climate change is an advantage, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex project environments and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders and produce high-quality documentation. Proficiency in other languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing the consultant to work from anywhere, specifically from Tonga. The expected duration of the consultancy is 2 months. The United Nations emphasizes that there are no fees associated with the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not charged at any stage, including application, interview, or training.