South Africa: Electricity Markets Specialist/Energy Research posted by MECS Africa

• Bachelor’s Degree (NQF 7) in Economics, Finance, Statistics, or a related field as recognized by SAQA
• Postgraduate qualification in Economics, Finance, Statistics, or a related field will be an advantage
• Minimum of six (6) years’ experience in electricity markets, energy regulation, competition analysis, or utility economics
• Experience in analysing market behaviour, energy pricing, or economic modelling
• Exposure to market monitoring, compliance, or enforcement within a regulated industry
• Familiarity with the structure and functioning of electricity trading markets, power pools, or system operations
• Experience working with large datasets and market information systems will be an advantage.

Key responsibilities:
Market Monitoring and Analysis:

• Monitor the behaviour of market participants to detect market manipulation, abuse of dominance, or anti-competitive practices
• Analyse market data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and pricing anomalies across the wholesale and retail electricity markets
• Develop and maintain performance indicators and dashboards for continuous market surveillance
• Conduct market performance reviews and prepare regular monitoring reports for management and the Regulator

Regulatory Framework Development:

• Support the development and implementation of rules, codes, and guidelines governing market operation, competition, and transparency
• Assist in designing regulatory instruments that align with the Electricity Regulation Act and evolving market structure (including the Market Operator and Transmission Entity)
• Contribute to drafting regulatory proposals and recommendations to enhance market competitiveness and efficiency

Investigation and Compliance:

• Conduct investigations into suspected anti-competitive conduct, collusion, or market abuse
• Support enforcement actions and recommend corrective measures where non-compliance is identified
• Collaborate with the Legal and Compliance units to ensure due process and fair regulatory practice in enforcement actions

Market Design and Research:

• Research and benchmark international electricity market structures and regulatory approaches
• Analyse models of market liberalisation, power exchanges, and balancing mechanisms
• Provide technical advice on market rules, settlement mechanisms, and trading arrangements

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Engage with the Market Operator, System Operator, generators, traders, and other market participants to obtain relevant data and insights
• Participate in consultations, workshops, and forums to promote understanding of market surveillance requirements
• Represent the company in national and regional energy regulatory forums on market oversight

Reporting and Advisory Support:

• Prepare technical reports and discussion papers
• Provide input into decision-making processes regarding market conduct and competition
• Advise on regulatory risks and emerging market developments