Meet our members

My inspiration for working in energy

I grew up in Nigeria, and one of my very first memories around energy was powering my home with inverters and batteries when electricity was unavailable at different times during the day. I would come to understand that storing electricity with batteries is a cleaner way of using electricity compared to other sources.

The value I gain from being an EI Member

Although, I had heard of the EI and followed its activities closely since 2020 through a Young Professionals Lead at the time, I did not consider joining the EI as an Associate Member until 2022.

I am glad I made that decision and joined when I did as I have grown my network in the energy sector as a result. I was invited for and received a sponsorship to attend the 2022 International Energy Week meeting and interacting with leaders that got me truly interested in EI. With EI’s New World, I keep up to date on the recent happenings in the energy sector and this helps me to understand the impact of my work with Arup.

How I'm influencing the sector and net zero

Now, I am an Energy Consultant with Arup, a global Sustainable Development firm with presence in over 100 countries. I work with clients trying to take actions and deliver projects with energy transition and net zero in mind. This ranges from performing renewable energy feasibility study, energy planning to project/program implementation.

Read AbdulHameed's full article

How I first became interested in energy

Growing up in Ipoh (a city in Malaysia), in a family that was always mindful of energy use, we were taught the importance of conserving electricity from a young age. It was a constant reminder of how energy consumption affected our daily lives, sparking my early curiosity about energy efficiency.

The reason I wanted to become an AMEI and Interim CEng

I first heard about the EI when I attended a webinar. I was immediately drawn to its reputation as a global hub for energy professionals, offering a platform for knowledge-sharing and networking.

I learned about the pathway to achieving full CEng status and how the designation could help me progress toward my career goal. The clear structure of the accreditation process and support available made it an ideal path. My motivation stems from a desire to further validate my expertise and commitment to the industry’s highest standards.

How being an AMEI and Interim CEng is improving my career

The membership offerings that have had the most impact on me include access to technical resources, training programs and industry events. EI has been a networking platform to me, which has allowed me to connect with other professionals in the energy sector. Through these connections, we exchange ideas, share knowledge and discuss industry trends.

Achieving full CEng status will signify that I meet the professional and ethical standards, reflecting my dedication to excellence in energy efficiency and sustainability. The process of obtaining this requires continuous learning and professional development, and EI serves as a key supporting platform.

How I’m working toward net zero

My work contributes directly to the goal of achieving a just transition to net zero. I provide & integrate energy efficiency & renewable energy solutions to building’s design where possible. Various innovative passive & active design strategies are implemented to optimize energy use in buildings, ensuring all systems work efficiently while maintaining occupant comfort.

Read Austin's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

During my degree, I realised I wanted to follow an energy and sustainability route, inspired by the best lecturer on my course teaching us about energy generation in the UK. I now try to lead a sustainable personal life as well, using my e-bike to travel around Oxford with my son on the back!

The value of being an EI Member

Since joining as a graduate member in 2010 and gaining MEI status in 2014.  I have hugely benefitted from training and events run by the EI which have directly helped me in my role and in maintaining my Performance Measurement and Verification Analyst (PMVA) status through the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements.

I also completed a module from the L2 Energy Management Professional (Heating and Ventilation) to improve my knowledge in this area which has specifically aided my level of engineering understanding on projects with ventilation measures. I really believe the EI is brilliantly placed to support and enable energy and sustainability practitioners to help others on the journey to net zero. The training and knowledge offered by the EI is such a fantastic resource for professionals in the industry, and I would really encourage others to apply.

How I'm influencing the sector and net zero

My responsibility is to lead a team of analysts and carry out the commercial modelling for public or private sector customers, to enable a range of technology and funding solutions to be offered. Our core technology offerings are hydrogen ready CHPs, heat pumps and solar PV. We design, build and maintain low and zero carbon technology solutions for our customers to help enable their journey to net zero.

Read Laura's full article

How I first became interested in energy

I was born in Brazil, and my interest in energy and the environment started at the university as I carried out research on municipal solid wastes, bioenergy, and environmental assessment. Since then, some of my career highlights include pioneering biogas projects in Sao Paulo at a time when Brazil needed to alleviate their oil dependency, to spending 14 years developing natural gas and solar projects in emerging markets.

The reason I joined the EI

I first had contact with the Energy Institute in 2000, when I was invited to the IP Week Gala Dinner (now International Energy Week) in my capacity as President of BP Brasil. Following this opportunity, I attended several EI events, and in 2022 I joined the Board of International Energy Week, becoming an EI Fellow in 2023.

How I’m working toward net zero

I am a non-executive director of international companies operating in the energy and infrastructure sectors and also a fellow of think tanks in the UK and Brazil. As countries and companies have pledged to net zero, it is essential that we devise ambitious and robust pathways for the medium and long terms and also provide credible disclosure of our objectives and achievements. As the energy world continues to change, I've been impressed with how the Energy Insitute has been keen to adapt and evolve, by leading discussions on energy transition and security, geopolitics, human capital , technology, and innovation.

How being an FEI improved my career

As a Fellow of the Energy Institute, I’ve gained invaluable opportunities to connect with leaders and professionals from the energy sector in the UK and worldwide. I've also been able to learn through the EI events and courses. Additionally, I have moderated a couple of panels at International Energy Week - this is a notable benefit of membership, as participating at these events projects your image all over the world.

Read Ieda's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

Although I was born in Yorkshire I grew up in Cyprus, where I first became aware of energy generation and storage due to the prevalence of solar hot water systems on the roofs of rural buildings. Unknowingly I was becoming familiar with renewable energy generation as part of a standard domestic installation, something which became even more commonplace when I later moved to mid-Wales and became involved with the Centre for Alternative Technology. Looking back at those early influences it is perhaps unsurprising that I became involved in a career relating to energy and climate change!

How I'm influencing the sector

I am the Managing Director at Inteb, where I have worked for over 13 years. We are Energy and Sustainability consultants with a multi-disciplinary team of talented, hardworking and highly trained energy managers, chartered surveyors, engineers, and utility experts. We work for corporate customers, real estate investors, and landlords throughout the UK (and in some cases internationally), helping them to improve sustainability, reduce carbon. and stay compliant as part of a just transition to net zero.

The value of being an EI Member

I have been a Chartered Energy Manager since 2014. I have benefited hugely from being part of the EI and wider energy community, and in particular following a more formal CPD process, which encourages me to learn about core subjects in more detail and expand my knowledge into other areas that I had perhaps not explored previously during my academic or working career.

How I'm influencing net zero

I will openly admit that I am unashamedly still banging the drum for good old-fashioned energy efficiency, essential if we are to accelerate a just global energy transition to net zero and sits well alongside other more glamorous solutions. Ultimately I, and we as Inteb, have an important part to play in the bigger picture by ensuring that energy efficiency remains a standing item on every business agenda, as there is ultimately no better way to balance cost savings and climate impact in today’s business.

Read Tom's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

Raised in Hong Kong, I was naturally drawn to science and maths from a young age. I recognised early on how science could both improve our lives and protect the environment. My work on clean energy projects in Mainland China further expanded my understanding of energy's critical role in environmental protection. By delving into technologies like carbon capture and storage, underground coal gasification, and converting "gutter oil" into aviation fuel, I realised my passion to help shape a more sustainable future.

How I'm influencing the sector

In my current role as the Managing Director at Lianhe Green Development Company, I oversee the strategic direction and execution of services in green finance, climate change consulting, and carbon audit. Leading our team to deliver excellence, foster sustainable development, and support clients in navigating the complexities of green finance and sustainability in both Chinese and global markets is a core aspect of my role.

The value of being an EI Member

Obtaining Chartered status has given me professional recognition and credibility in my field, demonstrating that I meet the required standards and competencies. This has enhanced my reputation and opened doors to new opportunities. Since 2020, I have been a committee member of the Energy Institute's Hong Kong branch, where I’ve organised activities that have provided me with the chance to connect with professionals and experts from various locations, including the UK, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Middle East.

How I'm influencing net zero

As the Managing Director, my role involves assessing and identifying green projects that fulfill the green taxonomy, directing financial resources to sustainable initiatives, and helping businesses adopt environmentally responsible practices. By leveraging the resources and global network offered by the Energy Institute, I actively engage in collaborative efforts, share best practices, and contribute to the collective goal of a sustainable and low-carbon future.

Read Lam Ka Ho Polex's full article

My inspiration to work in energy

I grew up in Ibadan and attended schools in different cities in Nigeria. Right from when I was 11 years old, I knew I was going to study Sciences in high school, out of my deep love for mathematics.

How I'm influencing the sector

Currently, I’m helping organisations to develop realistic carbon reduction strategies for their operations and processes and towards achieving 2050 net zero targets set by the UK government, and reducing the global impacts of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on climate change.

The value I gain from being an AMEI

I’ve enjoyed professional recognition at all stages of my career. The numerous and impactful trainings offered by the Energy Institute have greatly contributed to the leap that I’ve experienced in my professional development.

In addition, being an AMEI has afforded me the opportunity of expanded access to the most recent energy news, globally – this, in essence, helps at critically analysing energy-related datasets, drawing deep insights and proffering impactful solutions to applicable energy systems and its supply chain networks issues.

How I envision my future career goals

My career goals for the future are to not limit the application of my expertise to only the first-world countries, but replicate the methodologies utilised and take forward wins to other countries around the globe, most especially the African continent, including Nigeria.

Read Tosin's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

I grew up on a housing estate East of Kingston upon Hull called Bransholme. I had a passion for electrical energy following an electronics kit bought as a Christmas present by my parents.

How I'm influencing the sector

In my current role, I ensure the safe design, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of all HV and LV electrical systems both on and offshore. I have a team of three Electrical Engineers who support all areas of the business and regularly carry out audits to ensure compliance with company practices and standards.

The value of being an EI Member

I have been with the EI for 13 years and sit on the committee of the Humber branch. Being part of this ‘club’ has enabled me to network with like-minded professionals and share knowledge and experience.

How I'm influencing net zero

I am the Technical Authority for our electrical safety and environmental critical elements (SECE’s). My role is contributing towards transitioning to net zero by making sure we use energy efficiently and not unnecessarily.

Read Paul's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

During my undergraduate studies, I found the energy industry to be a place that combined the opportunity to do just that with a dynamic and exciting career path. From there I went on to study the EI-accredited Master’s in Sustainable Energy Futures which was what truly opened the doors for me to a career in energy and climate change policy.

How I'm influencing the sector

I now produce evidence-based insights for UK policymakers. These identify growth opportunities for the UK from its transition to a net zero economy. The most enjoyable aspect of my job is talking to policymakers and contributing new evidence and analysis to policy efforts to bring innovative technologies like tidal stream energy and carbon capture and storage to reality in support of the UK’s path to net zero

The value of being an EI Member

The knowledge, experience and connections I have acquired through the EI since joining as a student member 6 years ago have equipped me with a proper understanding of the energy system that I benefit from every day as I work on the climate problem in my current role.

How I'm influencing net zero

As an AMEI, I’m connected to a worldwide network of energy professionals helping me better understand transition challenges in different parts of the world. EI resources like New Energy World are never short of new ideas that could be transferred across geographies to deliver a just transition to global net zero. That really helps me put my work in the UK in perspective.

Read Esin's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

I grew up in the eastern part of Sweden, Norrkoping. I have two important memories. When we stopped for some gas, I just loved the smell of petrol! The other memory was looking up into the sky and seeing the aeroplanes taking off, I guess I was around 10 years old then.

How I'm influencing the sector

As a Laboratory Engineer, my main responsibility is to make sure that our instruments are calibrated and up and running 24/7. It also includes buying new instruments, the start of the new instruments and writing instructions so everyone understands correctly.

The value of being an EI Member

I’ve been a member for ½ year, but I’ve had help from you for about 2 years. The most important is your role in the making of new jet fuels. The meetings you’ve had about this are amazing and give me so much valuable information.

How I'm influencing net zero

We'll soon be producing green aviation fuel from HEFA-feedstock, made from waste tallow, rapeseed oil and used cooking oil. The refinery has been producing green diesel for several years though. I'm also learning more through EI resources and the annual MoD Aviation Fuels Committee Meeting.

Read Mattias' full article

My inspiration for working in energy

I grew up in Nigeria where littering and waste disposal were uncontrolled. As a 14-year-old secondary school student, I took part in an essay competition titled “A school or society devoid of littering is a small heaven on earth”. This essay sparked my interest in energy and the environment.

How I'm influencing the sector

I'm now supporting the North Sea energy transition through CCUS, carbon footprinting, emissions assessments and offshore wind projects. I also volunteer with SSERC and STEM Learning as a STEM Ambassador where I inspire and communicate science to children.

The value of being an EI Member

I have been an AMEI since January 2023 after transitioning from Student Member. Prior to that, I attended EI Aberdeen Young Professionals Network events, and this gave me the opportunity to meet new people with whom I’m still in contact to date. I also like that I can access training cheaper or free as well as volunteering.

How I'm influencing net zero

In my organisation, I am actively involved in raising awareness of travel emissions and supporting the organisation’s sustainability strategy through active conversations, sensitisation activities, and learning.

Read Chinyere's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

I grew up in Seychelles, an archipelago filled with nature, and became interested in energy at the age of 15 after seeing Seychelles commission its first 6MW wind farm. Witnessing the power of renewable energy inspired me to pursue sustainable solutions.

How I'm influencing the sector

My role involves conducting inspections, performing maintenance checks, and troubleshooting technical issues. The opportunity to work directly with wind turbines and contribute to clean energy generation is the most enjoyable aspect of my job, as well as the awesome view.

The value of being an EI Member

Being an AMEI has greatly benefited my career. The skills and knowledge from their Level 1 Energy Management Training allowed me to optimise energy consumption in my role, their resources keep me updated on industry trends and their events and training facilitated networking opportunities.

How I'm influencing net zero

There are challenges and opportunities toward a just transition to net zero. Challenges include managing intermittent wind resources, optimising energy storage solutions, and integrating new wind farm projects into the existing power grid infrastructure.

Read Gino's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

My interest in energy was sparked by studying renewable energy and energy management as part of my mechanical engineering degree. It helped me to see how engineering principles could make the world a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable place.

As part of my university dissertation, I carried out an energy study in Sainsbury’s introducing a number of energy-saving projects and was subsequently offered a role in the energy team. I then went on to lead energy and sustainability programmes for Debenhams, Starbucks, WeWork and Just Eat.

How I'm influencing the sector and net zero

At Just Eat, in my global role, my projects range from reducing operational carbon emissions of our offices and courier hub locations, helping restaurant partners adopt more sustainable packaging solutions and helping consumers to reduce food waste.

Value of being an EI Member

Being a Chartered Energy Manager has given me credibility amongst my peer group and was a great piece of recognition, showing I had gained the practical and academic experience required to continue my professional development. As the energy industry is so fast-paced, this is key to making an impression on employers and staying abreast of what’s happening in the industry.

Read Jaz's full article

Inspiration to work in energy

I’m studying for an Oil and Gas MBA at Aberdeen Business School; I was inspired to take this degree for many reasons – including how my country of Mozambique is on its way to becoming a top ten liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplier.

How I'm influencing the sector

I am involved currently in the design and implementation of Local Content Technical Assistance Projects for the Oil and Gas Sector and its value chain, and these assignments require an understanding of how the sector operates, both in operations and strategy.

Value of being an EI Member

My MBA program requires further reading and a lot of data analysis, and nothing is better than to connect, learn and network directly with the industry as an EI Student Member, where the leading players are. The EI produces excellent quality information and provides training and career guidance.

How I'm influencing net zero

Seeing the trend of energy transition and its positive impact on climate change and the pressure from communities around the world for a substantial reduction of carbon emission and, by 2050, a net-zero strategic intent is also a fascinating discussion to follow up in the next couple of years.

Read Mario's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

I first became interested in energy at university when I studied MEng in Chemical and Energy Engineering. This allowed me to study the whole energy supply chain — from generation (in all its forms), to networks and consumer matters.

How I'm influencing the sector

Currently, I am an Engineering Assistant with Pivot Power, which is part of EDF Renewables. Pivot Power is developing a national network of Energy “Superhubs”, combining battery energy storage systems and high-volume power connections.

The value of being an EI Member

The plethora of learning resources made available to me as an AMEI has benefited me in my career. Whether it be New Energy World, their knowledge service or online webinars. I’ve also met so many like-minded people through the London YPN that I've connected with professionally and socially.

How I'm influencing net zero

I've always liked to solve problems, and what excites me is there is no "silver bullet" in our journey to net zero. With that in mind and the fact I have only recently graduated, I have sought broad and varied experiences in the energy sector.

Read Sandy's full article

I then support them in engaging with their stakeholders to define priority areas to target in line with the organisation’s strategic direction. I'm supporting them in driving their sustainability transformation, such as communicating their ESG strategy, achievements, decarbonisation and circular economy.

Value of being an EI Member

Read Shahda's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

The thing about energy that interests me the most is that it is relevant to every field of human endeavour. I want to develop more powerful models for understanding the behaviour and performance of geological systems and push beyond the current limits of technology.

How I'm influencing the sector and net zero

I am currently a research student of Computational Geoscience within the Earth Science and Engineering Department, and I signed up to become a Student Member of the EI because I wanted to build my network and connect with industry professionals.

I aspire to hold a position of influence where I can make contributions in my area of expertise shaping the efforts of industry and academia to deliver sustainable energy to the world.

The value of being an EI Member

I also wanted opportunities for professional development and career growth, access to resources and news on the latest industry trends. This has helped me expand my knowledge and remain updated on local and global happenings across the energy industry.

I have also had the opportunity to gain valuable experience by volunteering as a representative of the Energy Institute during a conference.

Read Zainab's full article

How I first became interested in energy

I have always been interested in the environment and early on developed a passion for waste management; so professionally speaking I grew up on landfill sites! As an Environmental Manager, I was responsible for landfill sites across Southern England, which centred around the environmental protection of the surrounding countryside.

The reason I joined the EI

As part of my early career, I oversaw waste-to-energy plants, converting landfill gas to electricity. It was then I developed an interest in the wider energy industry. So about 14 years ago, I joined the EI as an affiliate member. Here I had access to key knowledge and attended the Level 3: Advanced Energy Manager training, a stepping stone to becoming a Chartered Energy Manager.

How I’m working toward net zero

I am responsible for all aspects of energy management at the Natural History Museum. It is becoming a greener museum to help create a greener planet and we’re the first museum in the world to set a science-based carbon reduction target. Our scientists are studying environmental climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution including ocean plastics and other human impacts on the natural world. We’re working to be net zero by 2035.

How being an MEI and Chartered improved my career

I have developed an enjoyable and successful career within the energy industry, always keen to continually develop my knowledge. I think the Chartered status and the EI provide a valuable source of knowledge and skills to draw on from the industry.

The Energy Institute has always been my energy “guru”, and the most prominent organisation to me as an energy professional. I suppose the culmination of my career, under encouragement from my CEO at the time, was a foray into national energy awards one year; and I won all three I entered. Including “Energy Manager of the Year”, which was judged by the Energy Institute, and it was great to get that external acknowledgement that you're on the right track!

Read Jude's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

Growing up in a rural location on the Northwest coast of Ireland and spending lots of my childhood out in nature led me to develop an interest in the Environment. I first studied Forestry Management and then completed my degree in Environmental Science. Seeing the increasing link between energy use and climate change I decided to continue my studies and completed a master's in Energy Management in my early 30s. I was 32 when I began my career in energy-related roles and have been working primarily in Property-related energy and sustainability roles for the last 10 years.

How I'm influencing the sector

As a Sustainability Manager for the UK and Ireland, my key responsibility is the development and implementation of a Net Zero strategy to reduce our Scope 1,2 and 3 emissions. I also act in an advisory and support capacity across the organisation for Environmental management issues across our operations.

The value of being an EI Member

I have been a member of the Energy Institute for about eight years, first joining in 2017 as an associate and then becoming a full member a few years later. I think becoming a full member is very much worth doing. Membership offers significant useful resources to access, and the range of training topics and modules available is very good.

How I'm influencing net zero

The work I do with the Salvation Army contributes to a just transition in a few ways. One example is the energy improvements in our large domestic estate will contribute to reducing fuel poverty. Secondly, it helps support the creation of more jobs in the developing green skills sector through our procurement of goods and services related to our net zero ambition.

Read Brian's full article

My inspiration for working in energy

I grew up in the UK, in a small village in the Midlands and had the typical early engineering experiences of the 1970s by needing to keep beaten-up cars at the end of life on the road. I became interested in energy through my PhD at Oxford, which was on the corrosion of spent AGR fuel can materials. My 1st job working for GEC Turbines in a heavy engineering and manufacturing environment reinforced my interest in the energy industry.

How I'm influencing the sector

‘Keeping the hydrocarbons inside the pipe’ has been a constant theme throughout my working life. The best part of having a global career (including positions at bp, Santos, and now my own consultancy IM3R Limited) has been getting to meet many talented people from diverse cultural backgrounds and collaborating with them on deep technical engineering challenges.

The value of being an EI Member

I have been a member of the EI for the last 3 years. I have been mentored and am mentoring through the EI Connect scheme. Access to EI resources and publications has been invaluable, a fantastic source for getting up the learning curve on all energy subjects.

How I'm influencing net zero

Historically my role has been supporting senior leaders in fossil fuel energy companies to understand integrity and process safety risks and helping facilitate good asset management decisions. These frameworks are applicable to evolving green energies but I believe the challenge is facilitating the sharing and transfer of existing knowledge and experience and customising fit-for-purpose approaches. Building bridges between industry and research establishments for collaboration and inspiring young engineers to join the transition to net zero are noble causes I am keen to support.

Read Harry's full article

My inspiration for working in energy
Growing up, during secondary school, I could no longer go to school due to a lack of finances. When I was 17, I went to a Technical College, with the intention of learning skills in electrical installation and maintenance practice, so that if I could not complete the programme, I would at least have the necessary skills to build a career.

How I'm influencing the sector
I am currently the Technical Manager of Jaza Energy Nigeria, a company that focuses on building solar hubs and employing women from the local community to light up the African continent. My role involves the establishment and design of the solar hub, as well as the the installation of equipment and commissioning.

The value of being an EI Member
I was helped to get my current role through EI membership, as I was referred by my Mentor under the EI’s mentorship program, EI Connect. I also regularly consult New Energy World and the EI site to stay updated on the latest trends in energy innovations, and training to obtain the energy management certification.

How I'm influencing net zero
By working for a renewable energy firm primarily dedicated to delivering clean power to un-electrified communities, I am making a substantial contribution to the journey towards achieving a net zero carbon footprint. Bringing green energy to these underserved areas leaves little space for high-emission energy sources.

Read Justin's full article

My inspiration for working in energy
I have always been interested in environmental sustainability and the impact of human activity. What really speaks to me is the commercialisation of carbon emissions reduction through pitching energy-saving solutions. I could combine my personal values of doing the right thing for the environment while at the same time creating a feasible business case, delivering real impact. It doesn’t get much better than that!

How I'm influencing the sector
I am the ESG Director at Viridor, one of the UK’s largest waste management companies. I am responsible for the design, implementation and delivery of the corporate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy. For enthusiasts like me, Viridor is the best place to be, as the entire business strategy and focus is wrapped around building a world where nothing goes to waste.

The value of being an EI Member
The Energy Institute was the grounding body for me for years. It was the first institute I joined after moving to the UK back in 2013. A really supportive group of people that offered me opportunities to meet industry experts, study and develop my technical background and meet like-minded people, who I am now proud to call my friends. The institute provided me with the foundation I needed to grow.

How I'm influencing net zero
A big part of the Viridor’s ESG strategy, is the delivery of our decarbonisation pathway. Being the largest Energy from Waste operator in the UK with an ambitious commitment to be net zero by 2040, we have a lot of work ahead of us. Building a flagship Carbon Capture plant at our Runcorn Energy Recovery Facility and capturing c.1 million tonnes of CO2 per year, is our number one focus.

Read Edita's full article