Biomass Feasibility Study Specialist (Renewable Energy PPP)

Allied Talent Partners seeks a Biomass Feasibility Study Specialist for a renewable energy project in Johannesburg, South Africa. The role involves assessing biomass feedstock, recommending conversion technologies, and developing techno-economic feasibility models. Candidates should have 8-10 years of experience in biomass project development, particularly in emerging markets. This is a contract position focused on integrating biomass into hybrid energy systems.
Biomass Feasibility Study Specialist (Renewable Energy PPP)

Department: Renewable Energy Project Development

Employment Type: Contract / Temp

Location: South Africa

Reporting To: Project Lead / Transaction Advisor

Description
Allied Talent Partners (ATP), a Three Cairns Group initiative, is a mission-driven, not-for-profit talent marketplace focused on solving the human capital bottlenecks slowing down sustainable development efforts in emerging economies, with an initial focus on Africa. ATP connects vetted, experienced, context-relevant professionals to high-impact opportunities in energy access and sustainable development – strengthening local capacity and fuelling economic vitality. We specialize in fixed-term, deliverable-driven engagements – from interim leadership and generalist projects to niche technical expertise – handling project scoping, talent vetting and matching, contracting, payroll, and compliance so that our clients can focus on impact.

High-Level Overview

The client is seeking a Biomass Feasibility Study Specialist to support the development of a renewable energy public-private partnership project in South Africa, focused on integrating biomass solutions into a broader hybrid energy system. The role will play a critical part in shaping the technical and commercial viability of biomass as a complementary energy source alongside agrivoltaics, ensuring alignment with project cost constraints and local economic development objectives. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in biomass energy technologies, techno-economic feasibility analysis, and practical implementation approaches within emerging market contexts.

Role and Responsibilities

Role: Biomass Feasibility Study Specialist
Direct Report: Project Lead / Transaction Advisor
Candidates Required: 1

Key Deliverables:
• Conduct biomass feedstock assessment including availability, sourcing strategy, volume estimates, and logistics considerations
• Evaluate and recommend optimal biomass conversion technologies (e.g. gasification, pyrolysis), including technical configuration and suitability to local conditions
• Develop a techno-economic feasibility model covering CAPEX, OPEX, cost of biomass supply, and levelized cost of energy
• Define system sizing, production capacity, and integration requirements within the broader hybrid energy system (including agrivoltaics)
• Produce a comprehensive feasibility report with clear recommendations on technical approach, commercial viability, and implementation roadmap

Requirements
Experience Required:
• Minimum 8–10 years experience in biomass or bioenergy project development
• Proven track record in delivering feasibility studies for energy infrastructure projects
• Experience working on renewable energy projects in emerging markets
• Familiarity with public-private partnership project environments
• Experience in integrating technical and commercial feasibility assessments

Technical Requirements:
• Strong knowledge of biomass technologies including gasification and pyrolysis
• Ability to conduct techno-economic analysis and energy modelling
• Understanding of biomass supply chains and feedstock economics
• Experience with energy project cost structures and CAPEX considerations
• Familiarity with hybrid renewable systems (e.g. biomass with solar or agrivoltaics)

Other Skills:
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Ability to work under tight timelines and deliver high-quality outputs
• Effective stakeholder communication and collaboration skills
• Adaptability in complex and evolving project environments
• Strong report writing and presentation skills

Working Arrangement
Location: South Africa (Eastern Cape preferred)
Travel: Periodic travel to Eastern Cape as required for site assessments and stakeholder engagement

Terms of agreement:
Start Date: TBC
Contracting Period: 3 months