Nova Innovation Appoints Ian Marchant as Chairman

Nova Innovation, the Edinburgh-based tidal energy company has appointed Ian Marchant, the former SSE Chief Executive, as Chairman.

Ian Marchant was head of the UK energy firm SSE for over 10 years before standing down in 2013. Since then he has taken director and chairman roles with selected companies including Aggreko, Wood Group and Infinis.

Joining the board of Nova Innovation continues Ian’s long standing involvement with marine energy, highlighting the optimism and confidence in this new and rapidly growing sector.

Commenting on Ian’s appointment, Simon Forrest Managing Director of Nova Innovation said: “Ian’s appointment helps strengthen the Nova board as we continue to grow our business. He brings a wealth of experience and insight that will accelerate Nova’s growth and commercial development.”

Ian Marchant said “I am delighted to be joining the Nova Innovation team. I am extremely impressed with the team’s focus on the commercial realities of tidal energy, their commitment to design and manufacture here in Scotland, the importance of community involvement in their activities and the clear values that drive the business. I believe that tidal energy production can make a meaningful contribution to the production of clean affordable energy and believe that Nova have the right strategy to make this happen.”

Earlier this year Nova Innovation successfully designed, built and deployed the world’s first community-owned tidal project in the Bluemull Sound in Shetland. Following the success of this project, Nova secured £3.75M investment package through private and public bodies to deliver a tidal array at the same site – potentially another world first.

Previously Ian Marchant was Chief Executive of SSE plc, a leading UK energy utility company, for over 10 years until stepping down in the summer of 2013. He is Chairman of Scotland’s 2020 climate delivery group and Chairman for Wood Group, non-executive Chairman of Infinis Energy plc and non-executive director of Aggreko plc. He is also President of the UK’s Energy Institute and Chairman of Maggie’s Cancer Charity. Ian will announce his Nova Innovation appointment at The Renewables Showcase Event.