RWE Renewables’ UK head of regulatory affairs Zoe Keeton has been awarded an OBE by the Queen in the new year honours list.
Keeton (pictured) has worked with governments, industry bodies, key national stakeholders and companies across the sector to help forge the key policies responsible for shaping the UK’s expanding wind industry, RWE said.
She has also acted as an expert advisor in helping tackle barriers to future growth, such as aviation radar and grid, while helping facilitate the delivery of the UK’s Net Zero ambitions, the company said.
Keeton was also involved in the negotiation of the UK Offshore Wind Sector Deal, which brokered a collaboration between the government and offshore wind industry.
RWE said that she is also an advocate for promoting diversity across the industry and has worked closely with organisations such as RenewableUK, Energy UK and POWERful Women, to encourage more women and a greater diversity of people to join the sector.
Keeton said: “I am truly humbled, thrilled and indeed surprised to have been chosen for this prestigious honour.
“The many achievements of the renewable energy industry have been a collaborative effort, and so I consider this as due recognition for the incredible work of the whole sector not just myself.
“The growth of renewable energy is one of the greatest achievements of our generation; the industry we have created is the foundation of a sustainable energy network that will last for generations to come, and which puts us firmly on the path to achieving global Net Zero targets.”
RWE UK country chair Tom Glover said: “We are all incredibly proud of Zoë and her tireless work on behalf of RWE and the wider industry.
“Her knowledge, insights and leadership have helped break down barriers and unlock new opportunities that ensure there is a clear pathway for the UK to achieve Net Zero, while delivering important economic benefits to businesses and communities alike.”
RenewableUK chief executive officer Dan McGrail said: “It’s great to see Zoë’s trailblazing role in the expansion of renewable energy recognised in this highly prestigious award.
“As a key member of RenewableUK’s Board of Directors she led by example, helping industry leaders to work together collaboratively, to ensure that we maximise the economic and environmental benefits which our sector is delivering to this country.”