Jeremy Leggett has confirmed that he has stepped down from his role as non-executive chairman of Solarcentury.
Leggett has made the move in order to allow him to focus on his climate campaigning activities ahead of the Paris Climate Summit in December. Leggett will remain on the Solarcentury board as a director.
Commenting on the move, Leggett said: “This is a make or break year for everyone who cares about abating climate change, promoting poverty alleviation, and solar's massive role in those missions. I feel a strong need, almost at the level of my DNA, to adjust my portfolio of activities to create more space for campaigning. I need to be doing more, in particular, with Carbon Tracker, SolarAid, and my new idea of a 5% Club for Climate and Development based on the Solarcentury-SolarAid model.
Leggett added: “All of these can help the forces pushing for a meaningful treaty in Paris, and for progress beyond.”
Stepping into Leggett’s vacated role at Solarcentury will be Dr Phillip Comberg, who recently joined Solarcentury as independent director. Frans van den Heuvel, CEO of Solarcentury welcomed the move, he said: “Solarcentury is at an exciting juncture as we expand into Africa and Latin America, where many countries are at grid parity, so there’s a strong economic case for solar. This growth will be guided by Philip’s wealth of international solar experience, combined with his financial and commercial pedigree. With this strategy in place, Jeremy can take more time to focus on his tireless campaigning to promote solar in the fight against climate change. This was Solarcentury’s mission 16 years ago and it’s still as relevant today as it ever was. We will continue to work hard with Jeremy, and the rest of the solar industry, to encourage the widespread adoption of solar power to help reduce carbon emissions.”
Leggett concluded: “I’m delighted to be able to pass on the mantle of chairman, knowing that the leadership is safe in the hands of Frans van den Heuvel, CEO, and Philip Comberg, chairman, and that the company will be steered by this duo with consummate professionalism consistent with its values, brand and culture. “
