Dr David Connolly

CEO

Irish Wind Energy Association, Chairperson of the Irish District Energy Association

Biography

Dr. David Connolly is CEO of the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) which is Ireland’s largest renewable energy association, representing over 100 different organisations. IWEA works with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders to build understanding and awareness of the benefits of Irish wind and renewable energy, and to ensure that Irish wind energy continues to provide clean, cost effective electricity to communities, businesses, factories and homes across Ireland. Previously, David served as Head of Policy in IWEA from May 2017 to March 2018, where he developed policies that promoted wind energy in Ireland, engaged with external stakeholders, managed IWEA’s policy committees, and represented the wind industry’s views at events. His responsibilities at the time related to electricity markets, electricity networks, wind farm planning, and strategic energy policy. Before that, David was an Associate Professor in Energy Planning at Aalborg University in Copenhagen where his research focused on the design and assessment of 100% renewable energy systems for electricity, heat, and transport. He graduated as a Mechanical Engineer in 2007 and completed a PhD in energy modelling in 2011, both at the University of Limerick. More information is available on his website: www.dconnolly.net.