Utilities are still in the driving seat of the European energy transition according to a new report, the inaugural European Power List, which ranks the top 100 most influential people in the wind energy industry.

The report outlines the key trends that the top 100 ranking tells us about the market, including how utilities are driving the energy transition, the importance of Scandinavia in driving activity; growth of offshore wind outside Europe; floating technology; the evolution of PPA structures; firms moving into hybrid developments; and how diversity in wind is rising up the agenda.

Utilities remain key drivers of energy transition

Utilities are the best-represented group in the European Power List top 100, accounting for 25% of individuals featured. In a market that is looking to recover after a notable slowdown in 2018, it highlights the importance of the utilities and developers that are pursuing the large onshore and offshore wind projects that the supply chain needs.

This is illustrated by Keith Anderson, CEO of Scottish Power, ranking number one. Scottish Power was the first of the 'big six' British utilities to shift to 100% wind power after it sold its remaining gas power stations last October, boosting the UK wind industry's reputation. This shows that well-known companies are looking to take a lead and foster the consumer revolution that will be needed for the energy transition to step up a gear.

Scandinavian onshore wind is a standout market

20% of the European Power List's top 100 are based in Scandinavia. Prominent examples include Martin Neubert, EVP & CEO of Wind at Ørsted placing seventh and Christina Grumstrup Sorensen, Senior Partner of Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners placing third. 

The report shows the impact of Germany's move to competitive tendering on its activity, with fewer German professionals in the European Power List than expected given the country's prominent position in the European wind industry. However, it is estimated that one quarter of the top 100 are working on large Scandinavian onshore wind projects in one way or another - developing, financing, advising or buying the electricity produced.

Offshore and floating become a global proposition

The European Power List reports that the lack of certainty from European governments around offshore wind development pipelines has led to firms taking a global approach to offshore development.

Alongside this, commercialising floating offshore wind technology has become a vital strategic goal for a number of industry players, such as Isabelle Kocher (9th place), CEO of Engie, which has recently set up a joint venture with EDP targeting offshore and floating technology, as well as Vincent Fromont, CEO of Eolfi (78th place) who heads up the French floating wind pioneer and is working on projects in emerging market Taiwan.

Challenging diversity 

Another important issue being faced in wind is diversity with a 34% female workforce and arguably an underrepresentation of women in top-tier roles. The European Power List 2019 is the first wind energy top 100 list to see 33% women in the rankings. 

Richard Heap, Editor-in-Chief of A Word About Wind said: "Diversity will rightly continue to be a big talking point at future events as we look to reflect the range of professionals in the industry. However, the challenge to achieving more diversity - especially in CEO roles - in wind should not be underestimated. If the industry is to keep making progress then the key to success will be to make the wind industry as attractive to as many people as possible."

To continue the celebration of the successes and advancements in the wind industry, the inaugural European Wind Investment Awards will take place on 31st October. To find out more and submit nominations visit www.windawards.com

Heap added; "With much of the industry's focus going on emerging and fast-growing markets in other parts of the world, it is often easy to overlook the achievements and challenges in Europe. We will celebrate success."

The European Wind Investment Awards will run in conjunction with Financing Wind Europe conference in London on 31st October. To see the official speaker line up visit www.financingwind.com

Download your copy the European Power List here: http://membership.awordaboutwind.com/european-power-list-2019

A Word About Wind | www.awordaboutwind.com