Chief executive of the Energy Networks Association (ENA) David Smith is to step down at the end of this year.
“After nearly two decades at ENA, the time is right for a change, both for ENA and for me, and I have decided to step down at the end of the year,” Smith said.
He joined the ENA in July 2003, and was appointed chief executive in October 2007. He added he’s “immensely proud” of the team he’s built in the ENA and the work that’s been achieved during his time, with the organisation growing from a 17-person technical trade association to a “globally respected industry association”.
He also referenced the launch of the ENA’s national single emergency number as well as its recent response to the COVID-19 pandemic and green recovery.
During the pandemic, a mechanism worth more than £350 million that allowed suppliers to defer network payments was designed by the energy networks through the ENA following a request from Ofgem, for instance.
Meanwhile, in February 2021 the ENA worked with Ofgem to unlock up to £300 million for network upgrades that facilitate green technology. At the time Smith said that the ENA was “incredibly proud” to be making ambitions of a green recovering from COVID-19 a reality.
“I will be leaving ENA well placed to continue supporting its members meet the challenge of delivering energy to communities safely, sustainably and reliably – a challenge more important today than ever before,” Smith said today.
Smith is now working with the board to select a successor, with recruitment underway.
Current± and the ENA are hosting a webinar on the opportunities for industry within a more flexible energy network as the penetration of renewables continues to grow. To find out more and register to be part of the event on Wednesday 13 April 2022, click here.