Energy Policy Analyst [Open to internal and external applicants]

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Please make note of the Tier(s) indicated in the vacancy title, if any, and ensure that you satisfy the eligibility to apply.

Background

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. 

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks. 

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization in fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org [link removed] or follow at @UNDP

The Western Balkan region is heavily dependent on fossil fuels and ranks among the most polluted areas in Europe. In Kosovo, energy production is primarily coal-based, relying on two outdated power plants that have been in operation for over 60 years. These aging facilities form the backbone of the local energy system, providing affordable electricity but at the expense of reliability and efficiency. This reliance on obsolete infrastructure imposes significant socio-economic costs, including environmental degradation, public health risks, and missed opportunities for economic modernization and sustainable development.

Institutional capacity building and inclusive community engagement, including SMEs and households, are pivotal to transforming Kosovo's energy landscape, despite the significant challenges in adopting energy-efficient practices. SMEs often lack the technical expertise and financial resources needed to implement innovative energy solutions, while households struggle with poorly insulated buildings, insufficient information, and reliance on low-efficiency appliances, leading to higher energy consumption.           

Addressing energy poverty demands a multidisciplinary approach, from adopting necessary legal frameworks to implementing innovative technical and policy measures. Kosovo's Just Transition Roadmap, which is being developed as part of the EU Growth Plan reform agenda, calls for comprehensive strategies, including investments in renewable energy, subsidies for low-income households, job creation, and energy efficiency programs. 

The ‘Inclusive and Just Pathway to 2030: Green Energy Future’ project aims to support Kosovo in achieving a just, inclusive, and sustainable transition from coal to renewable energy, fully aligned with Kosovo’s Energy Strategy 2022-2031, the National Energy and Climate Plans 2025-2030, and EU climate and energy commitments. This intervention aims to strengthen institutional and technical capacities for policy implementation, develop sustainable employment pathways in renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors, drive innovative investments, and foster public awareness of energy-efficient behavior. By 2030, the project seeks to contribute to a 35% share of renewable energy in Kosovo’s energy mix, a 33% reduction in emissions, and reduced energy poverty through an inclusive transition journey.

The project aims to address the above-mentioned challenges as follows:

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the UNDP Project Manager, the Energy Policy Analyst supports policy analysis by providing advisory inputs and operational support across the project. The Energy Policy Analyst supports the timely and quality delivery of results as defined in the approved project document and annual work plan, and will execute the duties and responsibilities outlined below: 

Support effective project planning and implementation:

Provide technical support and analytical inputs:

Strengthen partnerships, coordination, and communication:

Contribute to knowledge management and capacity development:

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organisation

Institutional Arrangement

The Energy Policy Analyst will work under the direct supervision of the UNDP Project Manager and will support the quality implementation and monitoring of activities, while collaborating closely with partners, stakeholders, and contractors.

Competencies

Core Competencies:

Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies:

Business Direction & Strategy           

Business Management           

2030 Agenda: Planet 

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Experience:

Languages:

Desired Skills:

Equal opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination. 

UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles. 

Right to select multiple candidates

UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Use of AI by candidates

Applicants are invited to read UNDP’s guidance for candidates on using AI responsibly in UNDP recruitment and selection [link removed]

Scam alert

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