Energy Retail Association announces new Chief Executive, 26 June 2008

Dr Garry Felgate has been appointed the new Chief Executive of The Energy Retail Association (ERA), it has been announced.

Dr Felgate is a Fellow of the Energy Institute, has a BSc Hons in Architectural Engineering and a PhD in Building Engineering. He was previously a Director of the Carbon Trust as well as occupying senior roles with AEA Technology, KPMG and A.T. Kearney. He is married and lives in London.

Commenting on his appointment Dr Felgate said: “I anticipate making a real impact in dealing with the energy suppliers, regulators, government and most important energy consumers at a time when energy issues rarely seem to be out of media and political focus."

He will start at the ERA on 1st July. He replaces Duncan Sedgwick, who has been Chief Executive of the ERA for the past five years and was the Association’s first CEO. During this time Duncan was instrumental in the creation of a helpline for vulnerable customers, a disconnection protocol, Code of Practice for sales and bills, and an Energy Ombudsman. The ERA is also currently leading the campaign for the universal roll out of smart meters.

Willie MacDiarmid, Chairman of the ERA, said: “The ERA Board would like to thank Duncan for his hard work and dedication over the last five years which we believe has moved the Energy Retail Sector forward significantly. Duncan leaves the CEO post with our best wishes for his future career."

Duncan Sedgwick added: “I have been proud to be the Chief Executive of the organisation during what has been an enormously challenging period. I believe the ERA has positioned itself as a strong advocate for the sector and I am sure my successor will continue to deliver improvements for the industry and customers alike."

Duncan Sedgwick will be leaving the ERA at the end of July.

- Ends -

For further information please contact Peter Jenkins, Head of Communications and Media Relations at the ERA on 020 7930 9181 or peter.jenkins@energy-retail.org.uk

                                                                                                                               
Top