There are 80 paid internships available right now with South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI). If you are a recent graduate who is unemployed, this could be your fastest route into a career in energy efficiency.
What the opportunity is
SANEDI’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Skills Development Programme offers an 18‑month internship. You will work on real energy‑performance projects and receive a monthly stipend (amount not disclosed). The programme starts in mid‑February 2027 and the application deadline is 02 November 2026.
Internship locations are spread across the Eastern Cape, North West, KwaZulu‑Natal, Northern Cape and Free State.
Who can apply (requirements)
- South African citizen
- Age 18 – 35
- Unemployed graduate
- Completed an NQF Level 7 qualification or higher (a NQF 6 diploma or TVET N6 does not qualify)
- Academic record available
- Can work independently and in a team
- Willing to travel and accept placement in the listed provinces
Relevant fields of study
You must hold a qualification in one of the following areas:
- Engineering (any relevant engineering degree)
- Energy Studies or Energy Management
- Built Environment – Architecture, Property Management/Real Estate, Construction Management, Property Studies, Quantity Surveying
- Natural Sciences
- Economic Sciences
What you will gain
- Six weeks of occupational training (NQF Level 5) for EPC practitioners
- Approximately 17 months of workplace‑based learning on real projects
- Hands‑on experience collecting and analysing building energy data
- Skills in preparing Energy Performance Certificates and recommending efficiency improvements
- Exposure to public‑sector and industry practices in energy and sustainability
- Professional mentorship and a solid addition to your CV
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Visit the official SANEDI recruitment page: SANEDI EPC Internships Application.
- Read the eligibility criteria carefully to confirm you meet them.
- Prepare the required documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your qualification
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Academic record
- Complete the online application form. Fill in all fields accurately.
- Upload the supporting documents as requested.
- Review everything, then submit before 02 November 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply early – spots can fill before the deadline.
- Tailor your CV to highlight any coursework or projects related to energy, construction or sustainability.
- Double‑check that your qualification is at least NQF Level 7; a lower qualification will be rejected automatically.
- Include a brief cover note stating your willingness to travel and work in the listed provinces.
- Proofread all documents; missing signatures or unclear scans cause delays.
- Keep a copy of the confirmation email after you submit.
Next steps
This internship can launch your career in the growing energy‑efficiency sector. If you meet the criteria, gather your documents now and submit your application before 02 November 2026. Even if you are not selected this round, the experience of applying will help you refine your CV and understand the market.
