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Veteran Energy Executive James Humfrey Takes the Helm of Ambitious Morocco-UK Renewable Power Project

Veteran Energy Executive James Humfrey Takes the Helm of Ambitious Morocco-UK Renewable Power Project
Monday 26 February 2024 - 14:44
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Global energy startup Xlinks has appointed veteran industry leader James Humfrey as Chief Executive Officer of its pioneering Morocco-UK Power Project. The $25 billion renewable energy initiative aims to supply 8% of Britain's electricity needs through an undersea cable system transporting solar and wind power from Southern Morocco.

Humfrey's appointment, backed by over 25 years of experience leading complex international energy projects, underscores Xlinks' ambition and confidence in reshaping energy markets on both sides of the Mediterranean. Leading a world-class team, Humfrey will drive the project's vision to provide the UK with clean, affordable power on a massive scale.

In response to the announcement, Xlinks Founder and Group CEO Simon Morrish praised Humfrey as "a fantastic addition," highlighting his pivotal role in advancing the project. Morrish expressed confidence in Humfrey's leadership, enabling him to focus on broader goals such as leveraging long-distance power transmission to enhance global grids and facilitate the energy transition.

Humfrey brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as Executive Vice President for Adnoc in Abu Dhabi, where he spearheaded billion-dollar projects including a $25 billion chemicals complex and the Middle East's inaugural blue ammonia plant. His previous roles at Shell involved overseeing multi-billion dollar capital projects and downstream M&A activities worldwide.

Industry insiders anticipate Humfrey's extensive track record and adeptness in working with international investors to be instrumental in driving the ambitious Morocco-UK project forward. With support secured from heavyweights like TotalEnergies, Octopus Energy, and TAQA, Humfrey aims to smoothly transition the venture into its critical delivery phase, targeting commencement of power supply to Britain by 2030.

For Humfrey, steering this groundbreaking project offers a unique opportunity to shape the renewable futures of both Morocco and the United Kingdom. Under his guidance, the "Green Giant" initiative is poised to set a precedent for future global grid-scale clean power interconnectors.


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