The Energy Services & Technology Association (ESTA) is to restructure in order to maximise its role in the expected changes to the UK’s energy landscape. The transition to the new structure is currently underway and is due to be completed as the current Executive Director, Alan Aldridge, retires at the end of 2013.
ESTA’s Chairman, Richard Hipkiss, explained: “Over the last 15 years under Alan’s guidance, ESTA has made major progression from a small trade association to being the voice of the energy management industry to government, customers and the media. But we face unprecedented changes in the energy sector over the next few years: Energy Management has emerged onto the national energy policy agenda as the UK begins to transition to a low energy, low carbon economy in order to sustain living standards. Energy security, environmental protection, price and consumer choice will drive this agenda in new ways.
“As the voice of energy management, we need to ensure that voice continues to be heard – and listened to – as the debates take place. We need to respond quickly and decisively. ESTA’s new structure adapts our existing skills and expertise to achieve that.”
A Director is currently being recruited who will, along with other key roles, form an Executive Board for ESTA. The Board will maintain close links to an inclusive Steering Committee with ESTA Members and other stakeholders in the energy efficiency world, including government and customers (from both private and public sectors). A new post of Policy and Communications Manager will also be created to ensure that ESTA’s key concerns and opportunities are presented clearly and effectively by all available methods.
“The energy industry is undergoing the kind of change that only happens once in a generation,” commented Richard Hipkiss. “ESTA is adapting so as to continue its role as a key change agent, representing its membership and ensuring that demand side energy management is high on the agenda for an energy efficient future. That must be the right way to move forward, not just for our members but for society as a whole.”