Forewind has today announced the appointment of former Energy Minister Charles Hendry MP as its new chairman.
With the Government committed to an ambitious target of 15% renewable energy consumption by 2020, Forewind intends to secure all the necessary consents required for the construction and development of the Dogger Bank wind farm, 125 km off the coast of Yorkshire.
Mr Hendry served as Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change until the summer of 2012 and before that as Shadow Energy Minister. Hugely experienced and highly regarded across the industry, Mr Hendry played a major role in developing renewables energy policy.
“We are delighted to have Charles Hendry joining us,” said Forewind General Manager, Lee Clarke . “As a widely respected former energy minister he brings to the table a wealth of knowledge and experience in the renewable energy sector which will no doubt be invaluable as he helps to guide our development.”
Mr Hendry said: “Forewind and the Dogger Bank project are at the leading edge of Britain’s growing offshore wind industry. It is the most ambitious offshore wind project in the world and will help make the UK the undisputed global leader in the technology. It is a privilege to be involved in such a world-class project. I look forward to being part of a team that represents such a high level of innovation, responsible energy production, and potential jobs creation. I truly believe that offshore wind will play a significant role in Britain’s future energy supply.”
Forewind’s previous chairman, the Rt Hon. John Gummer, Lord Deben, resigned in September 2012 following his appointment as the new chairman of the government’s climate change advisory body, Committee on Climate Change (CCC).
Mr Hendry will take up his position effective immediately.
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Press release, February 4, 2013; Image: Forewind