Africa Alternatives Internship
International Rivers is a non-profit advocacy and analysis organization based in Berkeley, California, and with staff and consultants working in the Brazil, China, Laos, Thailand, and Switzerland. International Rivers supports communities around the world in protecting their rivers and rights. We work to halt destructive dams and encourage better methods of meeting needs for water, energy and protection from floods.
We are currently seeking an Africa Alternatives Intern, who is passionate about international human rights and environmental issues, is familiar with a range of alternative energy solutions, and possesses solid research, writing and editing skills.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to communicate with International Rivers' global staff and partners, contribute to print and web publications, and be an integral part of a dynamic Berkeley non-profit office environment.
Research Project
The problems with destructive hydropower dams are well known in Africa and yet they remain a focus of Chinese aid and investment. There are over 82 Chinese hydropower projects (completed and proposed) in Africa. At the current speed and scale at which destructive dams are being built, they risk undermining international and local efforts to protect environmental assets, eradicate poverty and adapt to climate change.
China has great potential to help Africa meet its energy needs in an environmentally sustainable and equitable way. Chinese companies are leading the world in green energy development (including solar, wind, small hydropower, cogeneration and geothermal). However, Chinese green energy does not receive the same attention or volume of investment as hydropower. More research has also occurred on the feasibility of Chinese hydropower projects in Africa than on appropriate Chinese renewable energy projects.
The Intern's primary responsibility will be to conduct a desktop study on alternative energy exports by China, through a case-study approach starting with Kenya, in order to understand the impact and potential of Chinese investments in alternative energy production in Africa. The Intern's research will contribute to expanding our understanding of what drives Chinese investment in green energy in Africa, and how International Rivers can encourage the development of positive alternative energy projects in Africa.
Specific responsibilities include:
* Research, develop and maintain a database of known alternative energy projects in Africa that have Chinese investors and contractors.
* Conduct in-depth research on specific solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and energy efficiency projects in Kenya. Assess their costs and benefits.
* Assist in the development of a draft report that is useful for Chinese alternative energy providers/investors, as well as policy makers.
* Assist in small research-related tasks for the Africa Program when necessary.
Required qualifications and experience:
* Strong research, writing, strategic-thinking and communications skills
* Coursework and/or experience with alternative energy solutions and project finance, and energy development and needs in Africa
* Understanding of or experience working in African NGO networks
* Ability to multitask, stay organized, work as a team, and keep deadlines
* Chinese language skills recommended, but not required
International Rivers offers a stimulating, casual and flexible work environment. The Africa Alternatives Intern's work schedule requires an average of 20 hours per week for 3 months. Compensation: $10/hour. Course credit may be granted if applicable (please specify in your letter if your internship will be for credit.)
Qualified applicants are encouraged to send a cover letter, 3-page writing sample, and resume to the Intern and Volunteer Coordinator, internship@internationalrivers.org, with the subject line: Africa Alternatives Internship. NO CALLS, PLEASE. This internship will be open until filled.