Clarke takes up Energy Strategy Director role
With much debate over the role gas will play in the future, Wales & West Utilities have appointed Chris Clarke to lead their work in this area.
As Energy Strategy Director, Chris will be responsible for the company’s future of energy work which includes 2050 Pathfinder, an industry first energy systems simulator, and the Freedom Project, a smart hybrid heating project delivered collaboratively with electricity network operator Western Power Distribution.
Chris, 55 and from Western Super Mare, has been with the company since it started operations in 2005. A Chartered Engineer and experienced operations manager, he has over 30 years’ experience in the UK gas industry. He is also a Fellow and Past President of the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM).
Speaking about his appointment, Chris said:
“I’m really excited to be moving to this new role at a time of unprecedented change in the energy industry.
“We must make sure that the energy system of the future delivers what customers want and need: energy that is affordable, secure and green. To do that we must maximise the use of green gas and renewable electricity and take advantage of the existing gas and electricity networks, avoiding long term costly and disruptive infrastructure upgrade work across our towns and cities.
“I’m looking forward to making the case for the gas network to 2050 and beyond.”
Chris remains part of Wales & West Utilities recently reshaped Executive team. Andrew Hopkins, a Chartered Engineer and formerly Director of Operations has taken over the Asset Management, Safety and Environment directorate, and Rob Long is now responsible for Wales & West Utilities Operations directorate as well as the delivery of the Gas Pipe Upgrade Programme.
You can find out more about Wales & West Utilities future of energy work at www.wwutilities.co.uk/futureofenergy