Welcome to the 59th episode of our #MyEnergyLife series, a weekly feature on LinkedIn dedicated to highlighting, engaging with, and empowering emerging energy professionals across Africa. Through this ongoing series of articles, our goal is to explore the diverse career opportunities available within the energy sector while providing valuable insights and guidance to support the career aspirations of young professionals in this dynamic field.
In this episode, we meet Michelle Handura-Tjiteere ,a Renewable Energy and Specifications Engineer. Michelle Handura-Tjiteere shares her story of how she got started in the energy industry, detailing her initial challenges and offering invaluable advice to fellow young professionals seeking their path in this dynamic industry.
Full Name
Current Company Name
Current Job Title
Renewable Energy and Specifications Engineer
Specialization
Distribution Industry focusing on Renewable Energy and Development Finance
Country of Origin
Namibia
Tell us about your journey in the energy industry.
After completing my Bachelor's degree in 2015, I began my career as a Graduate Electronics Engineer at Telecom Namibia, where I spent nearly two years working on core network design, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)equipment configuration, network implementation, and troubleshooting. This experience provided me with a solid foundation in telecommunications infrastructure and operations.
In 2018, I transitioned into electrical engineering consultancy with DEKA Consulting Engineers, focusing on electrification design projects. During this period, I developed a strong passion for renewable energy and actively researched the utilization of technologies such as wind and solar PV as alternatives to grid extension for rural electrification. My work at DEKA centered on renewable energy feasibility studies, policy reviews, and energy management, with a particular emphasis on incorporating battery storage solutions to address the intermittency challenges posed by solar photovoltaic systems.
In 2019, I commenced a Master’s program in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Smart Grid Technologies, focusing on renewable energy. This program offered a balanced integration of theoretical concepts and practical applications, particularly in areas such as renewable energy technologies, finance, advanced photovoltaics, battery storage, and smart grid applications. Overall, the Master's program equipped me with a robust foundation in both the technical and financial aspects of renewable energy projects, preparing me to contribute effectively to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions.
While working on my research project in 2019, I secured a position as a Data Analyst Intern at Energy Partners in Cape Town, a prominent South African company specializing in developing, operating, and investing in industrial energy solutions that enhance operational performance for commercial and industrial clients. Their expertise includes renewable energy projects such as solar power installations, refrigeration systems, steam generation, and intelligent energy management.
In early 2020, I returned to Namibia to join Energy Partners Namibia as a Renewable Energy Analyst and Support Engineer, a role I held for nearly four years. During this time, I expanded upon the practical experience gained during my Master's program, focusing on demand-side management through the design of optimal and financially viable solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
In July 2023, I transitioned into the corporate sector by joining Erongo RED as a Renewable Energy and Specifications Engineer. Building on my experience and my Master's in Electrical Engineering—specializing in Renewable Energy Technology and Financial Modeling—I recently enrolled in a part-time Master’s program in Development Finance at Stellenbosch University Business School. This new academic journey aims to bridge the gap between engineering and finance, integrating these two powerful fields to unlock the full potential of our growing economy. The goal is to support economic growth and drive meaningful, inclusive, and equitable development on a global scale.
What do you do in your current role at your company?
I focus on the technical design and financial modeling of renewable energy systems for Erongo RED’s capital infrastructure projects. I ensure that embedded generators comply with Erongo RED's internal standards as well as the Electricity Control Board's Embedded Generation Standards (EGS) framework. Additionally, I am responsible for specifying distribution network equipment in accordance with NRS, IEC, and SANS standards to maintain compliance with Electricity Supply Industry regulations. This role enables me to apply my expertise in renewable energy to support the integration of sustainable solutions within the regional electricity distribution network.
Could you describe your typical day at work?
In my role as a Renewable Energy and Specifications Engineer at Erongo RED, I am responsible for the design and management of renewable energy capital infrastructure projects. This includes reviewing and providing feedback on embedded generation (EG) designs to ensure compliance with Erongo RED’s internal standards and the Electricity Control Board’s Embedded Generation Standards (EGS) framework. I am also tasked with specifying and approving distribution network equipment in accordance with NRS, IEC, and SANS standards to ensure regulatory compliance.
On a daily basis, I engage with various stakeholders, including renewable energy clients and Independent Power Producers (IPPs), to discuss potential off-take agreements with Erongo RED. Additionally, I contribute to the company’s renewable energy initiatives and other strategic projects, supporting the integration of sustainable energy solutions into our distribution network.
Furthermore, I manage applications for small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) systems, ensuring they meet technical and safety standards prior to integration into the network. Through these responsibilities, I actively contribute to the advancement of renewable energy adoption and the development of a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure in Namibia.
"I am passionate about solving engineering challenges in renewable energy, particularly those related to embedded generation. ”
What are some of the challenges you have faced in the industry?
In the distribution sector, one of the key challenges I face is keeping up with evolving trends and updating standards to align with consumer-centric frameworks. This is essential for mitigating the impacts of embedded generation on both distribution network infrastructure and utility revenue. Balancing the integration of renewable energy solutions for customers with the sustainability of Erongo RED requires continuous adaptation and strategic planning.
Additionally, as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I often find it necessary to go the extra mile to establish credibility. This means being exceptionally prepared, knowledgeable, and confident in my work. While the energy sector is gradually becoming more inclusive, women remain underrepresented—particularly in leadership roles—highlighting the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming these barriers.
Michelle on a visit in 2023 during power quality testing at the OLC Arandis Solar Power plant with an off-take agreement with Erongo RED, ensuring compliance with embedded generation standards
What is the most fun thing you love about your work?
I am passionate about solving engineering challenges in renewable energy, particularly those related to embedded generation. My focus is on balancing the urgent need to mitigate global warming, enhance energy security, and ensure the sustainability of Erongo RED's operations.
How do you balance work and life?
I make sure to be fully present in every moment. When it’s time to work, I give my best; and when it’s time to live, I live to the fullest.
What are the core hard skills someone in your field should have?
A strong engineering foundation with technical and financial modeling skills.
What soft skills should someone in your field have?
In the renewable energy field, it’s essential to be sociable, curious, and emotionally intelligent. Being teachable and adaptable is crucial for navigating this ever-evolving industry. Embracing the mindset that every situation offers a new lesson fosters continuous growth and drives innovation.
What is the best thing about your work?
The best part of my job is contributing to an inclusive energy transition that benefits both utilities and consumers, while ensuring long-term sustainability for all stakeholders.
What would you consider a highlight of your career?
A highlight of my career has been contributing to significant energy cost savings for various municipal utilities, universities, and retailers in Namibia and South Africa. These achievements underscore my commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and demonstrate my ability to apply technical expertise to real-world challenges.
Michelle participated in a delegation that observed anti-islanding tests at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa, as part of the Policy Catalyst initiative supported by the Get.transform programme.
"My work plays a pivotal role in advancing the energy transition by promoting distributed renewable energy systems that directly enhance community well-being and reduce environmental impact."
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Outside of my professional endeavors, I am deeply passionate about family, agriculture, and community development. My spouse and I, both avid farming enthusiasts, cherish spending holidays on our farm with our three-year-old child, who shares our love for nature. Our commitment to agriculture not only strengthens our family bonds but also contributes to job creation, food security, and the improvement of our employees' livelihoods—thereby supporting broader economic development.
In addition to my personal interests, I actively contribute to the academic and energy sectors. I serve as a Program Advisor for Sustainable Energy at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), where I support research and development initiatives aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 13, focusing on climate action.
How do you think that your work makes a difference in the energy space?
My work plays a pivotal role in advancing the energy transition by promoting distributed renewable energy systems that directly enhance community well-being and reduce environmental impact.
By focusing on the design and financial modeling of renewable energy systems, I contribute to the implementation of distributed generation solutions. These systems empower communities to generate their own clean energy, resulting in increased energy independence, reduced electricity costs, and improved energy security.
Through my efforts to ensure compliance with technical standards and regulatory frameworks, I help facilitate the integration of renewable energy into existing power grids. This integration supports a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure, aligning with global goals for environmental stewardship and social equity.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
Pay attention to details, be present, and be confident. Always stay relevant and give your best. Develop a multidimensional skill set by combining technical knowledge with financial and policy understanding to make broader, more impactful contributions.
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