The Energy Council of SA, which was launched in November to assist in the development and transition of the country’s energy sector, has appointed James Mackay as its first CEO with effect from October 17.
The initiative is being led by CEOs from Anglo American, the Central Energy Fund, Eskom, Exxaro, the IDC, Sasol, TotalEnergies SA and automobile manufacturing body Naamsa. The council was established to serve as the collective voice of the energy sector in SA and ensure the sector is able to attract the investment needed to drive industrialisation, localisation and job creation.
Mackay, who is currently the PwC energy lead, has over 20 years of diverse experience in the public and private sectors and has worked extensively across Africa.
He has professional qualifications in engineering and finance, and broad knowledge that spans the energy sector, including natural gas, renewables and green hydrogen, among others.
"[Mackay] has a strong understanding of the dynamics of emerging markets and economies, business and energy strategy, as well as hands-on experience in developing and leading large transformational programmes,” the council said.
Fleetwood Grobler, chair of the Energy Council and CEO of Sasol, congratulated Mackay on his appointment. “I look forward to working with him as we progress our work as the Energy Council of SA in being the collective, unified voice of energy,” Grobler said.
According to Mackay, affordable access to reliable and sustainable energy is one of the most critical challenges facing SA.
“I strongly believe that the Energy Council will play a critical role in helping to unlock value and shape our national vision for a vibrant energy sector, which I am very passionate about. I am looking forward to engaging with, and supporting all energy stakeholders, as the Energy Council becomes a vehicle that supports growth and prosperity for all South Africans,” he said.
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