In a strategic move to bolster its offshore wind operations, RWE, a leading European energy company, has announced the appointment of Thomas Michel as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of its offshore wind business division, effective from 1st September 2023.
The creation of this new board division signifies RWE's recognition of the increasing number of offshore wind farms under its operation and its commitment to further strengthening the management oversight of these large-scale projects during the construction phase.
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Thomas Michel, an experienced manager with a longstanding tenure at RWE, will assume responsibility for this newly established division. With nearly 15 years of experience in the wind sector, Michel has been instrumental in ensuring the safe operation of offshore wind assets and overseeing the commissioning of new wind farms.
Among his notable achievements, Michel played a pivotal role in the development of RWE's offshore wind farms, including the Kaskasi project located off the coast of Heligoland and Triton Knoll. Throughout his career, Michel has been entrusted with the crucial tasks of overseeing the operation and maintenance of RWE's extensive offshore wind fleet. Currently, the fleet comprises 19 assets spread across five countries, boasting a combined installed capacity of 6.2GW. RWE holds a 3.3GW share in these projects, making them a significant player in the offshore wind industry.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the appointment, RWE Chief Executive Markus Krebber stated, “I'm delighted that Thomas Michel, a very experienced manager from our own ranks, will be taking on the position of COO Offshore Wind. For many years, Thomas and his operations team have been ensuring the reliable operation of our offshore fleet, ensuring that millions of households in Europe are supplied with green electricity from offshore wind farms. I look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role.”
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As COO of the offshore wind business, Thomas Michel will be entrusted with several key responsibilities. These include overseeing the construction, operation, and engineering aspects of RWE's offshore wind farms, as well as shouldering the responsibility for Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) matters.
RWE's decision to appoint an experienced leader like Thomas Michel to spearhead its offshore wind division reflects the company's commitment to driving sustainable energy solutions and meeting the growing demand for renewable power sources. With Michel at the helm, RWE aims to strengthen its position as a key player in the offshore wind industry, while ensuring a reliable and green energy supply for millions of households across Europe.
