The Climate Change Committee (CCC), the UK government’s climate advisor announced today the appointment of Energy UK CEO Emma Pinchbeck as its new Chief Executive. Pinchbeck, who announced that she will step down from her current role next month, will join the CCC on November 11.

Established under the UK’s established under the Climate Change Act 2008, the CCC is responsible for advising UK governments on emissions targets and reporting to Parliament on progress made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Pinchbeck was appointed CEO of Energy UK, a trade association representing more than 100 energy industry suppliers, generators and service providers, in 2020, after serving as deputy CEO of trade body Renewable UK. She has also served as Head of Climate Change and Energy at WWF-UK, and has worked in finance and in commercial consulting for start-ups in the energy sector.

Ed Miliband, UK Secretary of State for the Department for Net Zero and Energy Security, said:

“We are almost halfway through the decisive decade to halt climate change. Emma is joining the Climate Change Committee at a pivotal point, and following her leadership at Energy UK, is well placed to advise and challenge government on our net zero goals – ensuring we meet our climate commitments with ambition and urgency.

In her new role, Pinchbeck will oversee the publication of the Seventh Carbon Budget advice in early 2025, outlining the carbon emissions limit for 2038 – 2032, and the fourth Climate Change Risk Assessment independent assessment in 2026, on how to respond to the climate risks faced in the UK.

Pinchbeck said:

“I take the opportunity to influence the UK’s progress on reducing emissions incredibly seriously, and to support Government make this transition in the way that most benefits people and the economy. You can expect the CCC to have much to say about this going forward.”