Stephanie Anderson is our newest non-executive director who joined the board this year. Stephanie explains her place in the energy sector and her vision for ElectraLink.
What led you to a life in the energy sector?
My aspiration was always to enter an industry with limitless opportunities. I can certainly say that this is indeed the case within the energy sector. It was also important to me that I had a ‘job for life’ which is a rare thing these days. The opportunities the energy sector offered excited me so much that I knew this was an industry I wished to be a part of.
What is your current role outside of ElectraLink and some core responsibilities?
I am the Head of Regulation for SP Energy Networks where I am responsible for general regulatory policy across both of our transmission and distribution businesses. I spend a great deal of time working on regulatory price controls as well as responding to emerging policies from the UK Government, Scottish Government and Ofgem.
What do you think the role is of central bodies like ElectraLink in the energy industry?
Central bodies are essential in ensuring the efficient functioning of the industry. There is a significant amount of work involved in industry data management, administration, change management and data processing. Without it, the industry would simply not be able to function.
Why did you choose to join ElectraLink’s board?
I chose to join the board as I wished to expand my knowledge in relation to data management generally. I am also keen to share my knowledge from my role in regulation with others. In addition, I was keen to gain personal experience in operating as a non-executive director.
What do you think will be the three most significant changes in the UK energy industry before 2025?
Data will become more readily accessible, leading to more customised services and providing even more insights for the industry. ElectraLink has a potentially even more powerful role in this arena than it does already.
We are entering a period of uncertainty following the COVID-19 crisis. Many consumers and businesses across the UK will face significant financial challenges. However, at the same time, we face a climate change catastrophe which cannot be ignored. The energy industry has the potential to not only facilitate more low carbon renewable generation (thereby positively contributing to climate change), but also boost the UK’s economy; creating new jobs and supporting supply chains. However, the associated costs with a ‘Green Recovery’ must be carefully considered alongside the financial struggles faced by many UK-wide energy bill payers. This will be the exam question which needs to be addressed by Government and the industry in the coming months.
The way energy demand is spread across our electricity and gas grids will change as we see greater Electric Vehicle uptake and Heat Pump installations. I also expect that working from home will become a norm for many, which will have an impact on the way energy consumers behave in the future.
Where would you like to see ElectraLink in 5 years?
I would like to see ElectraLink become a recognised brand by the industry and consumers for its innovation in relation to data, with key milestones reached successfully, such as the delivery of its recently proposed Flexr project.
When you’re not tackling some tough challenges in the energy industry, what do you do for fun?
I am creative at heart and love nothing more than reading the latest interior design magazine with a cup of green tea. I also like to put this into practice by carrying out DIY jobs at home and spending as much time as I can in my garden (although since I live in Glasgow this can be tricky with all of the rain!). I also have family connections in the Isle of Skye and Loch Fyne, so I enjoy spending as much time as I can there as the scenery is spectacular.