Join GridVille

About the role

The control systems role is focused on ensuring that the GridVille energy system delivers a stable and continuous power supply to all users.

This is achieved by designing and implementing software-based control systems that intelligently manage the balance between energy production, consumption, and storage. The role involves creating algorithms and automation logic that respond dynamically to real-time changes in energy flow, optimizing how the grid operates under varying conditions.

It requires both a theoretical understanding of control engineering principles and practical programming skills to develop reliable, scalable solutions. By working at the intersection of software and energy systems, this role plays a critical part in the functionality and efficiency of the overall grid.

Areas of Responsibility

• Develop software systems to coordinate energy production, consumption, and storage

• Design control algorithms to ensure a stable and efficient energy supply

• Monitor and adapt system behavior based on real-time data and grid conditions

Learning Outcomes

• Understand how to design and implement control systems for energy applications

• Gain experience in using software tools and programming to manage dynamic systems

• Learn to analyze real-time data and apply feedback control for system optimization

About the role

The hardware role is centered around designing and dimensioning the electrical grid for GridVille to ensure it operates safely, efficiently, and reliably.

This involves calculating energy needs and making informed decisions on the sizing of cables, breakers, and other key electrical components. The group is responsible for determining how much power the system will use and ensuring the physical infrastructure can support that load.

In addition to theoretical analysis, the role includes selecting real-world components—such as wires, fuses, circuit breakers, and distribution elements—based on both performance and safety standards.

The work requires close attention to detail, technical knowledge of power systems, and the ability to translate requirements into practical, buildable solutions.

Areas of Responsibility

• Perform energy and power dimensioning for the electrical grid

• Select appropriate cables, breakers, and protection components

• Choose and document technical components that fit the system design

Learning Outcomes

• Learn how to design and dimension electrical systems based on real-world energy requirements

• Gain experience in selecting hardware components that meet electrical safety and performance standards

• Develop an understanding of grid layout, current flow, and system protection in practical engineering scenarios

About the role

The role focuses on securing the financial resources and components needed to support the development of GridVille.

This includes budgeting, tracking expenses, applying for funding or sponsorships, and ensuring that all financial activities are well-documented and aligned with the project’s goals.

The position may also involve coordinating purchases, managing supplier relationships, and working closely with other groups to allocate resources efficiently.

By maintaining a clear financial overview, the role helps ensure the long-term sustainability and success of the project.

Areas of Responsibility

• Budget management and expense tracking

• Funding applications and sponsorship outreach

• Procurement of components and financial documentation

Learning outcomes

• Understand the fundamentals of budgeting, financial management, and resource allocation in a project-based environment

• Learn how to identify, approach, and communicate professionally with large companies for funding, sponsorships, and procurement

• Develop skills in procurement, documentation, and supplier coordination

• Improve teamwork, communication, and strategic planning abilities

About the role

The role focuses on promoting GridVille to a broad audience by creating and managing engaging content across various platforms, including the website, newsletters, and social media channels.

This includes planning and executing communication strategies, designing visuals and written materials, and ensuring a consistent and professional brand identity.

The position also involves analyzing outreach performance and adapting campaigns to increase visibility, attract potential supporters or collaborators, and strengthen public interest in the project over time.

It plays a key role in building the project's reputation and expanding its reach within and beyond the organization.

Areas of Responsibility

• Promote GridVille through the website, newsletters, and social media

• Develop and maintain a consistent brand and communication style

• Communicate with external partners and audiences to increase visibility

Learning Outcome

• Learn how to design and implement effective marketing and communication strategies

• Gain experience in content creation, digital marketing, and brand management

• Strengthen skills in visual design, writing, and audience engagement

• Understand how to measure and adapt outreach efforts based on data and feedback

About the role

The monitoring role is responsible for designing and implementing the sensor systems that gather real-time data from the GridVille energy grid.

The team ensures that the control system receives accurate and reliable input by developing both the hardware and software needed to capture and transmit data effectively.

This includes designing custom circuit boards, integrating sensors to measure key parameters (such as voltage, current, and temperature), and writing embedded software to process and send this data to the cloud.

The role bridges electronics, embedded systems, and cloud integration, ensuring that the grid remains observable, measurable, and responsive.

Areas of Responsibility

• Design and build circuit boards and sensor systems for grid monitoring

• Develop software to read sensor data and transmit it to the cloud

• Ensure accurate and reliable data flow to support the control system

Learning Outcomes

• Learn how to design and prototype custom electronics for real-time data acquisition

• Gain experience in embedded programming and cloud data integration

• Understand the importance of reliable sensor data in system control and diagnostics

About the role

The production role is responsible for building and implementing the physical systems that make up the GridVille microgrid.

This includes designing and constructing mounting structures for solar panels, installing fire-safe electrical enclosures, implementing proper grounding systems, and managing the procurement and installation of necessary materials.

The team ensures that all components are installed safely, reliably, and according to design specifications. Spanning from early planning and design to on-site installation and final commissioning, this role is essential in turning the project's technical concepts into a functioning energy system. It combines hands-on work with technical problem-solving and coordination across multiple disciplines.

Areas of Responsibility

• Construct and install physical infrastructure for the microgrid (e.g., PV mounts, enclosures, grounding)

• Procure materials and ensure quality installation on-site

• Ensure safety, reliability, and compliance throughout installation and commissioning

Learning Outcomes

• Gain practical experience in mechanical and electrical system installation

• Learn how to interpret designs and execute them in real-world conditions

• Develop skills in teamwork, safety procedures, and project execution from start to finish