Press release: EMEC Chair Andrew Mill awarded OBE

Andrew Mill, Chair of the European Marine Energy Centre has been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list and awarded an OBE for services to the environment and the community in Orkney.

The honours usually coincide with the Queen’s birthday with this year’s also mark the 70th anniversary of her reign.

Andrew has served in his role as Chair of EMEC since 2014 having previously been Managing Director when EMEC was formed in 2003.

A graduate Electrical Engineer, Andrew has long been associated with renewable energy technologies and energy systems, previously as CEO of NaREC (National Renewable Energy Centre) in the UK, and on the Board of the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult. He has also served on several government advisory boards and held numerous directorships in SMEs and large corporate organisations.

Neil Kermode, Managing Director at EMEC said:

“I’m delighted that Andrew has been recognised for his hard work and dedication to renewables through his time with EMEC and elsewhere.

“EMEC has become a significant employer in Orkney during Andrew’s time at the helm and has become an important part in showcasing the potential benefits that renewables offer to Orkney. As pressure increases to decarbonise the nation’s economy, we find that the county is well placed to pioneer many of the ideas being trialled here. The combination of natural resources, the demonstrated capabilities in the Orcadian companies already working in the sector, and the pressing need to reduce our carbon emissions mean that Orkney is perfectly placed to make the most of the coming changes.

“Andrew’s contribution over many years has placed EMEC in the vanguard of this developing sector and I think his efforts are worthy of this recognition.”

On accepting the award, Andrew Mill said:

“I’m delighted and honoured to have received this award, and would like to thank all I’ve worked with so far for their support.

“This has been a huge surprise, I’m deeply fortunate to have worked with such a talented and committed team over many years and I am delighted to have played my part in the success EMEC is having and through that in the positive impact we are having on the local economy.”