Performance Analyst

Introduction to SOLA

SOLA is a 100% South African, vertically integrated renewable energy solutions provider, specialising in the development, construction and operation of solar PV and battery energy storage projects. We focus on partnering with the private sector to deliver clean energy to businesses across South Africa using cutting edge clean energy generation and storage technologies. We help our clients to grow and prosper through the adoption of low cost and reliable renewable energy, enabling them to meet their carbon reduction and sustainability targets. For more information, visit

The overall purpose of the position:

The Performance Engineer sits within SOLA's Asset Management team and is responsible for ensuring that operational solar PV and hybrid projects across the portfolio are performing in line with expectations. The role involves reviewing and analysing operational performance data, identifying underperformance, and supporting the resolution of performance-related issues. The Performance Engineer plays a key role in technical reporting, stakeholder interface, and long-term performance assurance of SOLA's renewable energy assets.

Reports to: Technical Asset Manager

Location: Cape Town

Summary of Responsibilities:

Technical:

• Analyse operational performance across the solar and BESS asset portfolio using SCADA, meteorological and performance datasets.
• Identify and quantify underperformance, and work with O&M teams and service providers to resolve root causes timeously.
• Validate and assess EPC and O&M performance guarantees, warranty claims and degradation trends.
• Validate and assess Deemed Energy calculations and claims.
• Conduct portfolio-wide benchmarking and variance analysis to track performance over time.
• Support technical input into monthly performance reports for shareholders, lenders and clients.

Administrative/Operational:

• Support the Asset Management team with periodic reporting packs and board materials.
• Interface with Engineering and O&M to ensure consistent capture and investigation of technical performance risks.
• Develop tools and dashboards to automate and enhance performance tracking and reporting.
• Maintain documentation of model assumptions, measured performance, and outcomes of investigations.

Interpersonal:

• Provide clear and accessible technical explanations to a range of stakeholders including financiers, shareholders, clients, internal teams and service providers.
• Work collaboratively with Asset Managers, Engineers and O&M contractors to ensure rapid identification and resolution of performance deviations.
• Represent SOLA in technical discussions with lenders, OEMs and insurers where relevant to performance outcomes.

Health and Safety:

• Adhere to SOLA's HSE protocols when visiting project sites.
• Promote a culture of safety and technical diligence in all performance-related workstreams.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Accuracy of monthly performance tracking and energy model updates
• Timely resolution of flagged underperformance issues
• Alignment of operational PR with modelled expectations across portfolio

Minimum Requirements:

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Renewable Energy) or a related technical field.
• Minimum ~3 years' experience in solar PV performance engineering, asset management, or technical operations.
• Experience using PVsyst and data analytics tools to evaluate and track energy yield.
• Demonstrated ability to work with SCADA and meteorological data to detect and quantify performance losses.
• Familiarity with EPC and O&M contractual structures and performance guarantee mechanisms.
• Proficiency in Excel, Google Workspace and data analysis software (e.g. Python, Power BI or similar).
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel to project sites when required.

Technical Competencies:

• Advanced understanding of PV and BESS system losses, performance ratio, and energy modelling.
• Experience with performance benchmarking and root cause diagnostics.
• Comfortable interpreting metering and SCADA datasets and troubleshooting data gaps or anomalies.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Able to work in a hybrid work set-up as this is an office-based role that requires national travel to various sites in urban and remote areas.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in technical analysis.
• Effective team player, able to engage across technical, financial and operational domains.
• Curious, data-driven mindset with a desire to improve performance across the portfolio.
• The ideal candidate will be passionate about the renewable energy industry and will embody respect and responsibility in the full sense of the word, while enjoying contributing to a team of highly knowledgeable professionals.

At SOLA one of our core values is
Dig Diversity
and we are committed to transformation and embracing diversity. This commitment is what drives us to achieve a diverse and inclusive workplace, representative of the demographics of our society. We therefore give preference to applicants from the designated groups in alignment with our Employment Equity plan.

To apply for this vacancy, please complete
this screening questionnaire
and send a copy of your CV to