The CEO of MHI Vestas Offshore Wind, Philippe Kavafyan, has been elected to chair the European Wind Energy Organization, WindEurope, for the next 18 months.

Signalling the increasing importance of offshore wind in the wind industry in Europe, Philippe Kavafyan, CEO of MHI Vestas, was elected by the association’s Board of Directors as Chair of WindEurope.

Since April 2018, Mr. Kavafyan has been CEO of MHI Vestas and has improved the company into the leading manufacturer of pure play offshore wind turbines.

MHI Vestas is involved throughout Europe and maintains production facilities in both Denmark and the United Kingdom, as well as projects in Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden and the United Kingdom for installation, service and maintenance.

Mr. Kavafyan takes over the Chair role from Vattenfall’s Senior Vice President, Business Area Wind, Gunnar Groebler.

“The European wind industry will play a central role to address two major challenges we are facing: the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 health crisis, and a fair transition to a sustainable energy system. As wind power is turning mainstream, as an industry, we have a responsibility to ensure an inclusive path to a decarbonised future. The wind expertise, the skills, the supply chain are unique in Europe. With the renewed ambition of the economic recovery plans, they will be ready to navigate the impending crisis. I am honored to be elected by my peers to represent the full value chain of wind energy in Europe, a successful industry contributing, with jobs and innovation, to a recognized leadership in the world.“

Philippe Kavafyan, MHI Vestas CEO and new WindEurope chair.

“Through his exceptional work at MHI Vestas, Philippe Kavafyan has shown his vision for the energy transition – and delivered on it.  He’s made MHI Vestas a leading player in offshore wind in Europe and around the world. We’re delighted to welcome such an experienced leader as our new Chair. His extensive knowledge of European energy will help shape the next steps on wind energy’s path to become Europe’s leading source of electricity.”

Giles Dickson, CEO WindEurope.