Paul is an engineer, qualified electrician and experienced energy professional with a Masters background in Energy Conservation and Management.

He has been working to promote appropriate sustainable energy initiatives since 1993. During his early career, working with a specialist international firm of renewable energy consultants, his focus was linking international development to the provision of sustainable energy services. More recently he has been much more ‘hands-on’, principally managing on-site installation services for PV on buildings in the UK.

He lives in Solva, Pembrokeshire and is active as a Trustee with St David’s Community Trust and a volunteer of the St David’s Peninsula Local Energy Action Group. He also supports Community Energy in Pembrokeshire as a Volunteer Member of the Board.

What is the attraction to this kind of work?

I’ve been working in the renewable energy sector for a long time, and it’s increasingly clear that while governments and industry each have very important roles in our transition to a more sustainable future, there is something unique and especially rewarding about grassroots initiatives.

It’s exciting to see how a good idea and a few enthusiastic individuals can plant a seed that can transform the lives of others in very real and positive ways.

We are all constantly learning and can benefit hugely from the experience of others. I am well aware how much I have gained from the wisdom of colleagues & friends. I hope that in turn I can share some of my experiences to help others learn and overcome their own challenges. If that creates an environment that helps their seed to grow and blossom, then I’m all for it.

What is your vision for your area in 2050?

I’m hopeful that despite the current geo-political uncertainties and the worst efforts of some vested interests the growing movement for climate responsibility will prevail. We need to create an economy, environment and opportunities that encourage people to live, work and play here, young and old alike. That relies on strong linkages within and between communities.

Regarding my field, we have abundant natural energy sources which can and should be harnessed to achieve a net-zero carbon energy balance, clean air and a pollution-free environment. I see distributed renewable energy generation and localised energy storage embedded throughout our communities, supporting integrated transport powered by green electricity and hydrogen fuels.