The Policy Officer will support policy and project activities aimed at accelerating solar PV deployment through faster grid connections, expanded network capacity, increased system flexibility, and modernised planning and regulatory frameworks.
While the main focus will be on grids and distributed solar, the Policy Officer will also contribute to other topics within the GSC policy structure.
The position reports to the Policy & Projects Director .
About the Global Solar Council
The Global Solar Council is the voice of the world’s solar energy industry on the global stage. It is a non-profit organisation based in London, representing national, regional and international associations as well as leading solar-sector corporations.
GSC aims to enable solar energy to deliver clean and distributed power, economic development and increased energy access.
Job Summary
- Employer: Global Solar Council (GSC)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Energy & Utilities
- Salary: An attractive salary dependent on experience and location.
- Closing Date: 2026-10-09
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate project activities and support the implementation of grants.
- Coordinate GSC Task Force activities.
- Provide input on grids, system integration and flexibility, while supporting other GSC task forces and projects as required.
- Prepare and organise reports, presentations, policy papers, workshops, events and webinars.
- Facilitate communication between GSC and partners, stakeholders and service providers.
- Analyse policies, regulations and market trends relating to grid connection, network planning and the integration of solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
- Track and benchmark grid connection procedures, permitting timelines, curtailment levels and available hosting capacity across key markets.
- Collaborate with the wider GSC team and support activities including marketing, events, sales, member relations and communications.
Requirements
- Applicants should have an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in: Energy policy; Electrical or power systems engineering; Energy economics; Public policy; or A related field.
- Academic or professional specialisation in power system planning, grid integration of variable renewables, electricity market design or network regulation is highly desirable.
- Applicants without an advanced university degree will require one additional year of progressively responsible relevant professional experience .
- Candidates should have: At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in energy policy, electricity networks, power system planning, energy regulation or a related field.
- A strong understanding of solar PV, BESS, renewable energy and related policy.
- Knowledge of distributed solar PV systems, grid connection and interconnection procedures.
- Understanding of transmission and distribution network planning, grid codes and connection requirements.
- Knowledge of congestion management, curtailment and system flexibility requirements.
- Familiarity with electricity market design and regulatory frameworks governing network investment, tariffs and cost allocation.
- Experience working on grid integration of variable renewables, energy storage or demand-side flexibility.
- Experience coordinating projects, working groups or multi-stakeholder initiatives.
- Excellent analytical, writing and organisational skills.
- Fluency in English at native or equivalent level.
- Ability to travel and participate in international forums.
- A strong interest in solar energy and the global green transition.
- Experience engaging with transmission and distribution system operators (TSOs/DSOs), national regulatory authorities, utilities, development finance institutions or international organisations will be an asset.
- Experience working in emerging or developing markets is desirable. Additional languages will also be considered an advantage.
Salary
An attractive salary dependent on experience and location.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Policy Officer for Grids and Distributed Solar Systems in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, energy studies, public policy, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in renewable energy or energy policy is increasingly preferred. Certifications such as NEBOSH, project management (PMP or PRINCE2), or solar PV design credentials from institutions like Solar Energy International can strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Policy Officer in this field?
You will research and analyze energy policies, draft position papers on grid integration and distributed solar regulations, and engage with stakeholders including ZESA, ZERA, and government ministries. You may also monitor policy developments across SADC, prepare submissions for public consultations, and support advocacy campaigns for solar adoption. Field visits to solar installations and participation in technical working groups are common.
How does work culture and employer expectations differ in Zimbabwe's energy sector compared to international organizations?
Zimbabwean workplaces often emphasize hierarchical respect and formal communication channels, though international bodies like GSC may blend this with more collaborative, flat structures. Punctuality is valued, but flexibility is sometimes needed due to infrastructure challenges like power outages. Employers expect strong relationship-building skills with government officials and patience with bureaucratic processes.
What realistic career progression paths exist for Policy Officers in Zimbabwe's solar and grid sector?
With 3-5 years of experience, you can advance to Senior Policy Officer or Policy Manager roles within organizations like GSC, ZERA, or development agencies. Some transition into consulting, join regional bodies such as SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, or move into private sector utility-scale project development. Further specialization in climate finance or energy law opens additional pathways.
What typical benefits should I expect from full-time policy roles with international organizations operating in Zimbabwe?
International organizations typically offer medical aid coverage, pension or provident fund contributions, and annual leave exceeding the statutory minimum of 21 days. You may receive housing or hardship allowances, professional development funding, and sometimes transport or fuel benefits. Always verify if benefits are locally compliant with Zimbabwe's Labour Act and NSSA requirements.
How should I apply for this role, and what do Zimbabwean employers and international bodies prioritize in candidates?
Submit a tailored CV highlighting policy research experience and knowledge of Zimbabwe's Renewable Energy Policy and National Renewable Energy Policy, plus a concise cover letter demonstrating stakeholder engagement skills. Employers prioritize candidates with proven networks in Zimbabwe's energy sector, strong writing abilities for policy briefs, and understanding of grid challenges specific to the Southern African context. Follow application instructions precisely and prepare for competency-based interviews focusing on analytical and advocacy skills.
