Energi Coast appoints new deputy chair

Energi Coast, the offshore wind cluster for North East England, has appointed Tom Nightingale as deputy chair of its leadership group.

Tom, currently local supply chain manager (UK) renewables at Equinor, brings over 12 years’ sector experience spanning JDR Cable Systems, DeepOcean, Baker Hughes and TechnipFMC. 

He also holds roles with NOF, Energy Central Campus and the Offshore Wind Growth Partnership.

Tom said: “I am delighted to be appointed as deputy chair for Energi Coast, the UK’s leading cluster for offshore wind.

“North East England is at the epicentre of the energy transition with the pipeline, projects and people needed to advance the UK’s net-zero ambitions. 

“This region is built on a great industrial heritage, and our strong supply chain and ports will be at the heart of the sector’s growth in the North East and beyond, helping to deliver the offshore wind industrial growth plan and create opportunities for local people to prosper.” 

Tom’s appointment was announced at the Energi Coast Regional Supply Chain Showcase in Newcastle, as the cluster steps up efforts to promote the region’s offshore wind capabilities and support national growth targets. 

Joanne Leng MBE, chief executive of NOF, added: “Tom has long played an active role within Energi Coast and has been a passionate advocate of the cluster, with strong links to both industry and Government. 

“I’m therefore thrilled to see him take up the role of deputy chair, through which he’ll be making an even greater contribution to the development of offshore wind in North East England.”

Tony Quinn, chair of Energi Coast, added: “We have worked with Tom for many years and know the extensive level of expertise he brings to the cluster, through his involvement in landmark projects such as Dogger Bank Wind Farm. 

“It’s very exciting to now be working alongside Tom as we continue to build and promote the clusters regional ambition to support future deepwater leasing off the coast of North East England.”

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