Irish Wind Energy Association new CEO takes the reins
03 April, 2018
Dr. David Connolly, CEO, IWEA
“I am passionate about the wind industry in Ireland and so taking up the role of CEO of the Irish Wind Energy Association is a real honour and opportunity. And I am ambitious for its future – I believe we can do more with this home grown resource. I’ve worked in the industry in other countries and I’ve seen how it can flourish with the right support. We have no shortage of talent in Ireland, no shortage of willing workers, no shortage of demand for green energy and thankfully no shortage of wind. My challenge and opportunity is to build on this strong base to ensure wind and renewable energy continues to play a pivotal role. And that the benefits of this are felt by all, communities close to wind farms and all Irish energy consumers in their bills.”
Dr. Connolly joined IWEA in May 2017 as Head of Policy. He previously worked as an Associate Professor with Aalborg University in Copenhagen, Denmark, where he specialised in the development of low-carbon energy strategies for different countries. Specifically, David’s research analysed the integration of intermittent renewables (such as wind and solar power), district heating, electric vehicles, and the production of electrofuels/synthetic fuels for transport. As Head of Policy in IWEA, David’s role involved promoting wind energy in Ireland, developing a long-term energy strategy for IWEA, engaging with external stakeholders, managing the association’s markets and grid committees, and representing the industry’s views at events and working groups.