Great British Energy has announced the appointment of five non-executive directors to its start-up board, taking a significant step toward its mission to transform the UK into a global leader in clean energy. The board will oversee the development of the company’s strategy, ensuring that it drives investment in renewable technologies, strengthens UK supply chains, and creates skilled jobs across the country.
The publicly-owned company, supported by £8.3bn in funding over this Parliament, is a central part of the government’s Plan for Change. Its goals include improving energy security, reducing reliance on imported energy, and protecting households from price volatility. Based in Aberdeen, the company will own and invest in projects that deliver clean, homegrown energy.
Energy security and net zero secretary Ed Miliband said the appointments reflect the urgency of the company’s objectives. “We’ve appointed a highly skilled start-up board to help Great British Energy hit the ground running in its mission to scale up clean, homegrown power. With a strong track record of delivering results across sectors, the new board members will now play an integral part in kickstarting Great British Energy, delivering our Plan for Change and building a new era of clean electricity for the British people.”
Juergen Maier CBE, chair of Great British Energy, highlighted the importance of the appointments in laying the groundwork for the company’s ambitions. “This is an important milestone for Great British Energy, as we bring together an expert board to rapidly scale up the company and get to work in delivering a UK-wide clean energy revolution. Their experience across the energy industry, government and trade unions will be crucial in shaping our strategy and organisation.”
The board members bring diverse expertise, including Frances O’Grady, former general secretary of the TUC and a lifelong campaigner for workers’ rights; Frank Mitchell, who has over three decades of experience in the energy sector, including as CEO of SP Energy Networks; Kate Gilmartin, a leader in renewable energy and community energy initiatives; Dr Nina Skorupska CBE FEI, an accomplished figure in renewable energy innovation and former CEO of the Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology; and Valerie Todd CBE, an HR professional with extensive experience in talent development and infrastructure projects.
These directors have joined Great British Energy on initial contracts lasting between 18 months and two years. Their immediate focus will be on scaling the company, establishing its Aberdeen headquarters, and guiding its investment strategy to align with the UK’s net-zero ambitions.
The government has already announced partnerships, including an unprecedented collaboration with The Crown Estate, to accelerate investment in clean energy projects. It has also secured agreements with Scottish public bodies to support energy supply chains. These initiatives are supported by the Great British Energy Bill, currently progressing through the House of Lords, which will provide the necessary powers for the company to deliver its objectives.