Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator, has welcomed five new Non-Executive Directors. These appointments aim to provide independent oversight and support, guiding Ofgem’s initiatives to bolster energy market resilience and maintain momentum towards net zero.
The newly appointed Non-Executive Directors include individuals with extensive experience in areas like consumer protection, competition, and regulation. These experienced individuals are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Ofgem’s mission. Here are the five new Non-Executive Directors:
- Warren Buckley: Warren is the outgoing Chair of Citizens Advice and brings over 30 years of experience in consumer and customer service leadership roles across corporate and charity sectors. His career includes leadership roles at major organizations like Vodafone, BT, and HSBC.
- Alena Kozakova: As a competition and regulatory economist, Alena’s expertise spans both the public and private sectors. She currently co-leads the London practice of E.CA Economics, an antitrust consultancy, and has previously served as the Chief Economist at Ofwat.
- Graham Mather: Graham’s extensive experience in competition, regulation, law, and economics includes serving on the boards of regulators like Ofcom and the Office of Rail & Road. His significant contributions led to his appointment as CBE for services to economic regulation, competition, and infrastructure development.
- Jonathan Kini: Jonathan’s background includes senior roles in companies like TalkTalk, Virgin Media, and Vodafone. He’s a Non-Executive Director of the regulator Ofwat and has played pivotal roles in various organizations, including leading the Business in the Community (BITC) Net Zero Carbon Taskforce.
- Dr. Tony Curzon Price: With a strong background in economics, technology, energy, and economic regulation, Dr. Tony Curzon Price has served as an advisor in multiple government departments, including BEIS and the Cabinet Office. He also brings entrepreneurial and Silicon Valley experience to the table.
These new additions to Ofgem’s Board align with the government’s approach to achieving net-zero emissions, focusing on flexibility and innovation in the retail energy market. The collaboration between the government, Ofgem, and the Non-Executive Directors will drive the creation of a more adaptable and eco-friendly energy market that offers cost-effective and cleaner energy options for consumers.
Furthermore, this initiative encompasses comprehensive reforms to energy infrastructure, expediting the planning of nationally significant projects and ensuring community engagement in decision-making.
Minister for Energy Consumers and Affordability, Amanda Solloway, emphasized the critical role these appointments play in advocating for consumer rights and building an energy market fit for the future, aligning with the government’s net-zero goals.
The new Non-Executive Directors are expected to fortify Ofgem’s commitment to supporting gas and electricity consumers, ensuring their energy needs are met as the nation progresses toward net zero.
In the face of declining energy prices and ongoing support for vulnerable communities, the government is steadfast in its mission to provide cleaner, more affordable energy. These five appointees will take up their roles in November, collaborating with existing Non-Executive Directors and Ofgem’s new Chair and Executive Committee.
This development underscores the continued commitment to strengthening the UK’s energy landscape, promoting cleaner energy, and safeguarding the interests of consumers on the journey to a sustainable and net-zero future.