RMI is bringing the benefits of clean energy to all by transforming global power systems to support modern, low-carbon economies. Our Carbon-Free Electricity Program works across the electricity system to facilitate the transition away from coal-powered generation; slow the rush toward gas generation and wisely manage existing gas infrastructure, allowing for decommissioning where prudent; speed the deployment of clean, distributed, and customer-centric energy solutions; and transition utilities to be climate-aligned in their business models and operations. We work closely with utilities, regulators, businesses, advocates, and customers to evolve grid institutions, policies, regulations, and processes in support of the transition to a modern and inclusive low-carbon future. We employ a unique combination of research, consulting, and collaboration to support individuals and organizations to innovate and implement transformative energy solutions.

Within the Carbon-Free Electricity (CFE) program, our Accelerating Coal Phase-Out initiative, supports utilities, financial institutions, project sponsors, and policymakers to develop innovative financial approaches to speed the coal to clean transition. Building on years of work to support the development and implementation of financial tools such as rate-payer backed securitization in the United States, in 2020, the Initiative produced How to Retire Early: Making Accelerated Coal Phaseout Feasible and Just, a first-of-its kind analysis of nearly 2,500 coal plants to determine the cost competitiveness of the global coal fleet with respect to clean energy. This analysis also described RMI’s approach to reaching an effective, rapid coal phaseout, which focuses on the development of innovative financial approaches that simultaneously accelerate coal retirement, ramp-up clean energy investment, and support a just transition.

Building on this work, RMI is building a team to implement the solutions outlined in How to Retire Early that will 1) create opportunities for the successful development and financing of coal-phaseout projects through engagement and support of policymakers, public finance institutions, private investors, and developers and 2) advise and engage key stakeholders in high-priority coal-reliant countries on the policies and financial structures best suited to accelerate coal phase-out. This team will also continue to work on strengthening the economic analysis underlying these financial approaches.

Key Responsibilities, Experience, and Qualifications 

RMI is seeking an exceptional principal to co-lead its Accelerating Coal Phaseout initiative. In this role you will focus on engagements with stakeholders globally, including jointly developed and implemented projects, coordinating diverse, multi-stakeholder collaborations, and developing innovative thought leadership such as reports and new financial models. You will also be responsible for managing a team of 4-6 people to assist in delivering initiative outcomes. As this program is led within RMI by the Carbon-Free Electricity Program but executed in close coordination with the Global South and Climate Finance Programs, you will lead the establishment of a highly integrated and matrixed team to accomplish the identified objectives. You will be one of the primary representatives of the initiative to external partners including utilities, public finance institutions, and national governments, and will be expected to represent the Carbon-Free Electricity Program and RMI at various events and conferences.

As a principal you will have the following key responsibilities

• Support the development and execution of the Accelerating Coal Phaseout strategy
• Provide direct management of 4-6 staff and a corresponding budget of ~$1.5M
• Scope engagements with public, multilateral finance institutions (e.g., Asian Development Bank, World Bank’s Climate Investment Funds, EIB, Export Credit Agencies, etc.) and private finance institutions (private equity funds, asset managers, etc.)
• Lead the team in developing analysis and working alongside developers, owners, financiers, and officials to ensure successful phase-out projects. to
• Structure and deliver compelling presentations and written products to bring new insights to the initiative’s target audiences
• Work hand-in-hand with our communications team to develop communications strategies.
• Act as a primary relationship manager for the initiative with external partners and stakeholders, primarily public and private financial institutions
• Represent RMI in external interviews, media, and publications
• Lead by example in leveraging RMI’s expertise through meaningful collaboration with other RMI programs