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Programme Lead / Senior Programme Associate, Clean Energy


The International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST) is inviting applications for the positions of Programme Lead and Senior Programme Associate under its Clean Energy Programme.


We are looking for experienced, motivated professionals with a strong understanding of India’s renewable energy sector, demonstrated analytical and research capabilities, and a proven track record in programme execution, advisory and implementation-oriented assignments. The role also requires excellent communication, coordination and stakeholder engagement skills to support high-impact clean energy transition initiatives across states and sectors.


https://forms.gle/Bujd7qyMMpFB2vFY8


Required Experience for Programme Lead: 10+ years

Required Experience for Senior Programme Associate: 5–7 years

Location: Noida, Uttar Pradesh


Reporting to: Director, Clean Energy (Programme Lead) / Programme Lead, Clean Energy (Senior Programme Associate)


About iFOREST

iFOREST is an independent, not-for-profit research and innovation organisation established in 2019. Our mission is to identify, promote and scale up solutions for critical environment-development challenges in India and other developing regions across Asia and Africa.

We focus on regional priorities to accelerate environmental action at the sub-national level, while influencing national policies and plans to support these efforts. By drawing on our resources and expertise, we aim to address regional needs, strengthen national action and contribute to global solutions.

Our work involves independent, evidence-based research, developing innovative solutions, convening stakeholders to build consensus, and partnering with think tanks, civil society organisations, government agencies, philanthropies and industry leaders.


The Clean Energy Programme

The iFOREST Clean Energy Programme focuses on accelerating equitable renewable energy growth in India by supporting clean energy deployment in underserved states, especially in the eastern and northeastern regions.

The programme supports state governments through policy and regulatory reform, implementation strategies, techno-economic assessments, investment facilitation and institutional capacity building. Its focus states include Odisha, Assam, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. The work prioritises land-neutral technologies such as floating solar, agri-PV, rooftop solar, storage and green hydrogen.


The Role

The Programme Lead / Senior Programme Associate will drive research, policy advisory and implementation activities under the Clean Energy Programme. The Programme Lead will anchor delivery of the programme, working closely with the Director across research, engagement, technical support and implementation, and will manage teams and workstreams. The Senior Programme Associate will lead the execution of key assignments, particularly on industrial renewable energy adoption, demand aggregation and investment mobilisation in Uttar Pradesh and other priority states.


The selected candidates will work closely with state governments, renewable energy agencies, utilities, industrial associations, MSMEs, development partners and other stakeholders to develop and implement renewable energy transition initiatives.


Key Responsibilities

  • Drive execution of ongoing and planned projects, ensuring timely delivery of committed activities, outputs, milestones and reporting requirements
  • Design and manage workplans, research methodologies, analytical frameworks and implementation strategies for programme assignments
  • Conduct and oversee primary and secondary research, techno-economic assessments and policy analysis on industrial RE adoption, RE procurement, demand aggregation and storage integration
  • Lead preparation of research reports, policy briefs, technical outputs, regulatory recommendations and investment-oriented strategies, with analytical rigour and quality control
  • Support the design and operationalisation of RE demand aggregation initiatives and pilot projects in industrial clusters
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, utilities, industries, MSMEs, research institutions, CSOs, media and development partners
  • Lead stakeholder consultations, workshops, trainings, convenings and field engagements
  • Represent iFOREST in external meetings, consultations, conferences and sectoral discussions
  • Contribute to programme development, including concept notes, technical proposals, budgets, pitch materials and partnership building
  • Manage and mentor programme teams, supporting work allocation, progress tracking and capacity building (Programme Lead)
  • Undertake any additional responsibilities related to the advancement of the Clean Energy Programme and institutional priorities


Qualification & Work Experience

At least a master’s degree from a recognised institution in a relevant field, such as energy policy, public policy, economics, management, renewable energy, engineering or a related discipline.

Around 10 years of relevant experience for the Programme Lead, and 5–7 years for the Senior Programme Associate, in research, strategy consulting, advisory, programme implementation or policy engagement focused on the renewable energy sector.

A demonstrated track record of producing high-quality research and advisory outputs, such as reports, briefs, assessments, presentations and implementation frameworks.

Experience of working with government agencies, utilities, industries, industry associations, development partners or research institutions will be an advantage.


Required Competencies

  • Strong understanding of India’s renewable energy sector, including its policies, regulations, programmes, technologies, industrial markets, open access, captive energy and implementation challenges
  • Proven experience in qualitative and quantitative research, policy analysis and techno-economic assessments
  • Strong programme execution and project management capabilities
  • Ability to engage effectively with government, industry, research institutions, CSOs and development partners
  • Strong analytical, writing, presentation, communication and problem-solving skills
  • Collaborative, proactive and solutions-oriented approach, with strong organisational and time-management skills
  • Experience in proposal development, programme reporting and donor coordination is desirable
  • Willingness to travel as required


What We Offer

At iFOREST, we provide an inclusive and supportive work environment. We are committed to professional development through education, training and capacity-building initiatives.

  • Opportunity to contribute to high-impact clean energy transition and renewable energy deployment initiatives across India
  • Exposure to policy processes, government engagement and technical advisory work
  • A dynamic and supportive work culture that values methodological rigour and innovation
  • Competitive compensation in line with experience and organisational norms


Remuneration

We offer a competitive salary based on experience and proficiency. The final designation will depend on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.


Application Instructions

We prefer that candidates apply through LinkedIn https://forms.gle/Bujd7qyMMpFB2vFY8 or submit an online application at https://iforest.global/careers/