Grids of the Future (GOTF) Lead – Kenya

About the role

Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet is looking for a Kenya‑based Grids of the Future (GOTF) Lead to embed within Kenya Power’s headquarters in Nairobi. The consultant will guide the utility through the foundational stage of its grid modernisation programme and into the early implementation of pilot projects, shaping a three‑year roadmap and ensuring continuity into delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the primary liaison with Kenya Power, facilitating the development of a Utility Charter and a phased three‑year modernisation roadmap.
• Define priority pilot areas and support the creation of technical concept notes on digitalisation, flexibility, loss reduction and battery energy storage system (BESS) integration.
• Coordinate workshops, capacity‑building programmes and maintain relationships with regulators such as EPRA and the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum.
• Engage technology providers, universities, startups and co‑funding partners, and coordinate with other technical advisors and financing stakeholders.
• Provide advisory on grid digital twins, distributed BESS use cases, DER integration and flexibility strategies, and support the preparation of funding proposals.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years of senior experience in the power sector (utility, regulator, advisory or engineering firm).
• Proven track record in utility modernisation, digitisation or operational improvement programmes.
• Established working relationships across the Kenyan power sector, including familiarity with Kenya Power and key stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work independently in an embedded role.

Required skills

• Grid digitisation
• Digital twins
• GIS‑based asset management
• SCADA
• Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
• Renewable integration
• Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
• Demand‑side flexibility

What we offer

• Annual salary starting from USD 100,000, negotiable based on experience.
• 28 days of annual leave.
• Hybrid allowance.
• Life and medical insurance.