Cogen Europe, the European association representing the interests of the cogeneration industry, today announced that Roberto Francia had been appointed to the post of Managing Director. He replaces Fiona Riddoch, who had led the association since 2006. Roberto Francia is well-known to the influential players in the European market, as he has been a specialist in the areas of energy and climate since 2004. During his career Mr Francia has been noted for taking a keen interest in, and placing a major emphasis on, all issues connected with electricity.

Of Italian origin, Robert Francia previously co-founded Cinque International, a company whose mission statement is to offer analysis, design and implementation in the field of energy. Before his most recent appointment, Mr Francia also led the industry group dedicated to assisting the Italian Government in designing its action plan on infrastructure powered by hydrogen.

Expressing his pleasure upon the confirmation of his new appointment, Mr Francia commented: “COGEN Europe is one of the best industrial associations based in Brussels, […] and I am pleased to join this highly respected team. The energy sector is undergoing changes. […] I am ready for the challenge of working with European policies to enable CHP to deliver its full potential for energy savings in Europe. I’m really looking forward to working with the members and the cogeneration industry by strengthening our foundations and our shareholder base. ”

Phil Piddington, the Chief Operating Officer and President of Cogen Europe, was similarly enthusiastic about the new appointment and took the opportunity to welcome Mr Francia to his new post, saying:
“The members of the executive committee of COGEN Europe are very pleased that Robert has agreed to join them. We are sure that with his knowledge, enthusiasm and leadership, it will help the association achieve its goals for cogeneration in Europe. We also wish to thank Fiona Riddoch, who is moving on to other challenges, for her assistance in recent years. ”