Head of Energy Department

Job Title

The Head of Energy Department leads the regulation and oversight of electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and renewable energy initiatives in Rwanda. Oversees the activities carried out in different divisions under the department. This involves monitoring market dynamics, regulating necessary actions to maintain a level playing field and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards across the sector. Responsibilities include developing and implementing policies, standards, and regulations to promote sustainable development, reliability, and affordability of electricity and renewable energy resources. The Head of Energy Department collaborates with stakeholders to ensure the efficient and equitable provision of electricity services, oversees licensing processes, sets tariffs, promotes competition, and monitors licensee compliance. They ensure quality standards, engage in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), provide technical support, lead research and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership:
  • Provide strategic direction and leadership for the Energy Department in alignment with RURA’s overall objectives and national energy policies.
  • Develop and implement departmental strategies, plans, and initiatives to promote the sustainable development and expansion of electricity and renewable energy infrastructure.
• Regulatory Oversight:
  • Develop and enforce regulations governing electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and renewable energy projects, including licensing, technical standards, and environmental compliance.
  • Monitor electricity utilities’ compliance with regulatory requirements and standards through regular inspections, audits, and performance assessments.
  • Monitor market behavior, pricing structures, and competition within the energy sector to prevent anti-competitive practices and ensure fair market conditions.
  • Investigate complaints and disputes related to electricity services and renewable energy projects and take appropriate enforcement actions to resolve issues and ensure compliance.
• Promotion of Renewable Energy:
  • Promote the development and deployment of renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass, through regulatory incentives, financial support mechanisms, and capacity-building initiatives.
  • Facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources into the national electricity grid and promote off-grid electrification solutions in rural and remote areas.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Support the planning and implementation of electricity infrastructure projects, including the expansion of transmission and distribution networks, grid modernization initiatives, and electrification programs.
  • Collaborate with electricity utilities, government agencies, and development partners to prioritize investment in critical infrastructure projects and ensure the reliability and resilience of the electricity system.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Engage with electricity utilities, renewable energy developers, government agencies, international organizations, and other stakeholders to address challenges, promote innovation, and facilitate collaboration in the electricity and renewable energy sectors.
  • Conduct consultations, workshops, and stakeholder meetings to gather input and feedback on regulatory matters, policy initiatives, and infrastructure development plans.
• Data Analysis and Reporting:
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret data on electricity supply, demand, generation capacity, renewable energy production, and grid performance to inform regulatory decisions and policy recommendations.
  • Prepare and present reports to management, government agencies, and other stakeholders on the state of the electricity sector, regulatory compliance, and renewable energy developments.

Requirements

• Education and Experience:
  • Minimum of a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Economics, Public Policy, Business Administration, Law, Development Studies, and Social Sciences with a minimum of 3 years of experience.
• Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong knowledge of electricity laws, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and multi-stakeholder environment.
  • Proficiency in data analysis, report writing, and presentation skills.
  • Experience working with electricity utilities, renewable energy developers, regulatory agencies, and international organizations is desirable.
• Professional Qualification:
  • Certified Energy Project Manager is an added advantage.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

• An application letter addressed to the Director General
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic qualifications.
• Copy of identity card or passport.
• Notarized service certificate(s) from current and/or previous employer(s) must be provided to substantiate the number of years of experience, particularly in managerial positions. In addition, a recommendation letter from the most recent employer is required.
• Signed reference letters from at least three (3) referees listed in the applicant’s Curriculum Vitae (CV) must be submitted.