UNDP Afghanistan is implementing the Afghanistan Resilience and Enterprise Accelerator (AREA) program under the ABADEI project. The program aims to support 200 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Afghanistan through the provision of solar power systems (via in-kind private sector support) and facilitated access to subsidized loans. A key component of the program is the fair, transparent, and merit-based selection of MSME beneficiaries from a pre-identified pool of 400 enterprises.

To ensure a credible selection process, a Selection Committee will be established, comprising independent experts, including a Solar Energy Specialist. This specialist will serve as an independent evaluator, bringing technical expertise in renewable energy systems, solar power feasibility, and energy needs assessment to ensure selected MSMEs are suitable for and can maximally benefit from the solar power intervention.

Objective of the Assignment

The Solar Energy Specialist will serve as an independent technical expert evaluator on the AREA Project Selection Committee. The primary objective is to assess the solar energy needs, site feasibility, and technical readiness of MSMEs, ensuring that the provision of solar power systems (average 5 kW) is appropriate, sustainable, and aligned with each enterprise's operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

The Specialist will be responsible for:

• Technical Feasibility Assessment:
  • Review MSME proposals to evaluate current and projected energy consumption patterns.
  • Assess the suitability of each MSME’s location, site conditions, and infrastructure for solar PV system installation.
  • Determine appropriate solar system sizing and specifications based on MSME operational hours, load requirements, and geographic factors.
• Evaluation Against Solar-Specific Criteria:
  • Apply technical selection criteria related to solar energy adoption, such as:
    • Willingness to adopt solar solutions.
    • Existing energy challenges and costs.
    • Roof/space availability and structural suitability.
    • Potential for energy savings and operational expansion.
    • Gender considerations (e.g., energy access for women-owned businesses).
  • Score each MSME based on technical readiness and potential impact of solar intervention.
• Committee Participation:
  • Actively participate in 20 days of Selection Committee sessions.
  • Provide expert technical insights during committee discussions, particularly on energy-related aspects.
  • Collaborate with other committee members to ensure integrated evaluation of MSMEs.
• Scoring and Documentation:
  • Score each MSME proposal based on solar energy criteria within the evaluation matrix.
  • Document clear technical justifications for scoring and recommendations.
  • Advise on the creation of a waiting list considering potential installation challenges.
• Compliance and Ethics:
  • Adhere to UNDP’s principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
  • Sign and abide by a confidentiality agreement regarding all MSME data and committee deliberations.
  • Declare any conflicts of interest prior to the evaluation process.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education:
  • Master’s degree in Renewable Energy Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Management, Environmental Engineering, or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree with extensive experience may be considered.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in solar energy system design, installation, feasibility assessment, or renewable energy project management.
  • Demonstrated experience conducting energy audits or needs assessments for commercial or industrial clients, preferably MSMEs.
  • Knowledge of hybrid solar PV systems, battery storage, inverters, and mounting structures, as specified in the project Annex C (page 19).
  • Familiarity with international standards (IEC/ISO) for solar equipment and installation safety.
  • Experience working in Afghanistan or similar contexts, understanding local energy challenges and infrastructure limitations.
• Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong technical analysis and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings, energy data, and site assessment reports.
  • Excellent communication skills to explain technical concepts to non-technical committee members.
  • Fluency in English (reporting) and Dari/Pashto (evaluation and communication).
  • Proficiency in relevant software (e.g., PVsyst, HOMER, AutoCAD, MS Office).
• Preferred:
  • Previous experience serving on technical evaluation committees for UNDP, UN agencies, or donor-funded renewable energy projects.
  • Understanding of gender and social inclusion considerations in energy access projects.

Duration and Working Schedule

• Total working days: 20 days
• The assignment will be conducted within the project timeline, with sessions held in Kabul or virtually as required.
• Daily sessions will involve the technical evaluation of approximately 20 MSME proposals.

Reporting Lines

The Solar Energy Specialist will report directly to the Selection Committee Chair and will work closely with other committee members, including the Business Development Specialist, Financial Specialist, UNDP representative, AREP representative, and private sector partner. All final decisions and reports are subject to UNDP approval.

Deliverables

• Completed technical scoring sheets for all assigned MSME proposals, with solar feasibility ratings.
• Brief technical assessment notes for each MSME, highlighting site readiness, estimated system requirements, and potential challenges.
• Contribution to the final selection committee report with a technical due diligence summary.
• A signed confirmation of adherence to confidentiality and ethical guidelines.

Code of Conduct and Ethics

The Specialist must adhere to UNDP’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), fraud, and corruption. Any breach of ethical conduct will result in immediate termination of the assignment.

Interested candidates should submit:

- Updated CV

- Cover letter

Applications should be sent to: n.darwish@arep.org.af Deadline: January 25, 2026
Please clearly indicate “Solar Energy Specialist (Independent Evaluator – Selection Committee Member) and Vacancy Number APER-HR-467” in the subject line of the email.

The organization is committed to equal opportunity and encourages qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.