The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced key appointments to its board, with Justin Punch re-appointed as chair for a third term and Elizabeth O’Leary commencing her second term.
Having served as chair of ARENA’s board for two previous terms, Punch has overseen significant growth at ARENA, and has been instrumental in the development of key funding programs including Hydrogen Headstart and Community Batteries Round 1.
Related article: Alinga’s Ruby Heard on equity through energy
Ruby Heard and Dr Dean Travers are joining the ARENA board for the first time.
Heard is a descendent of the Jaru people of the Kimberley, an electrical engineer and founding director of Alinga Energy Consulting, providing energy research services with a focus on affordable and sustainable off-grid systems to improve the livelihoods for Indigenous communities, and brings considerable experience in the building services and energy space.
Dr Travers has more than 25 years of experience in the energy sector across global markets in mergers and acquisitions, deal structuring, project development and operations and maintenance. He has worked across Europe, North America, Asia and Australia to develop conventional and renewable energy projects for global energy firms.
ARENA CEO Darren Miller welcomed Heard and Travers to the board, saying their experience and expertise in the energy sector will enhance its existing board and guide ARENA as it facilitates the clean energy transition.
“The ARENA board is gaining some incredible talent in Ms Heard and Dr Travers,” he said.
“ARENA is committed to ensuring First Nations People are at the forefront of the energy transition and Ms Heard’s work as Director of Alinga Energy Consulting and on the Steering Committee of the First Nations Clean Energy Network will provide an invaluable perspective for our work.”
“Dr Travers brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in working on renewable energy projects around the world that will not only help with ARENA funded projects, but also open up global collaboration opportunities,” Mr Miller said.
ARENA’s Board has overall responsibility for the operations of the agency. It is a skills-based decision-making body, responsible for recommending the Agency’s annual general funding strategy to the Minister, setting investment priorities, overseeing the running of the organisation and approving project funding.
Related article: Darren Miller reappointed for third term as ARENA CEO
ARENA also thanks its outgoing board members, Anna Matysek and John Hirjee, who have both served on ARENA’s Board for two terms.
“I’d like to thank Anna and John for their time and contributions to ARENA. Their skills and expertise along the way have helped pave the way forward for us. I wish them well in their next endeavours.” Mr Miller said.
