Guernsey industry expert appointed as Director of Channel Islands Electricity Grid

The CIEG is responsible for overseeing the operation of the cable network that connects Guernsey and Jersey to France. It was established in 1998 and enables the importation of over 93% of Guernsey’s electricity from renewable sources.

Capital Programmes Commercial Manager, Tom Woodford brings 36 years of experience with high value contract and stakeholder management for Guernsey Electricity which has underpinned the strategic direction of the company. Much of this experience has involved working for CIEG projects, gaining valuable knowledge of the operation and development of the grid.

Tom will join Guernsey Electricity Chief Financial Officer, Karl Brouard Chief Operation Officer Sally-Ann David and CEO Alan Bates alongside Jersey Electricity’s members.

He will oversee the operation, management and future development of the network. The CIEG is one of electricity supplier, EDF’s top ten customers and the role will involve the managing of import contracts with both EDF and the French transmission network operator, RTE.

Tom said: “I’m looking forward to bringing my operational knowledge of the complex subsea cable network to develop a long term strategic approach assisting with the future management and development of the CIEG grid in a way that can benefit both Guernsey and Jersey. Both Islands have ambitious energy policies to tackle climate change and ensure a secure supply of energy and the CIEG cable network is an essential part in meeting the objectives.”

Guernsey Electricity continues to plan for the installation of a second cable from Guernsey directly to France which will provide diversity to the Island supplies and reduce exposure to fluctuations in the energy market. This will provide the foundation to a future energy mix by providing reliable access to a diverse and secure supply of renewable electricity and enabling the development of any future local renewable generation.