Natural Power, a consultancy renowned for its focus on renewable energy, has announced the appointment of Gordon Burrows as the new Head of ControlCentre, effective from October 1, 2025. Burrows arrives with an extensive background, boasting over two decades of experience in power systems operations, planning, and control. His previous roles include senior leadership positions at SP Energy Networks and Northern Powergrid, where he was responsible for managing a 24/7 control centre in Yorkshire.
### Leadership Role in Renewable Energy Management
In his new capacity, Burrows will oversee the UK’s largest independent renewable energy control room, which plays a pivotal role in managing the operational aspects of renewable energy assets throughout the country. The ControlCentre, located at Natural Power’s headquarters in Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway, currently manages an impressive 11.5 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy assets. This includes a substantial portion of the UK’s onshore wind capacity, offshore projects, and battery storage facilities.
Matthew Kelly, who serves as the Head of Operations & Asset Management at Natural Power, highlighted the significance of Burrows’ appointment, particularly as the ControlCentre is scaling up to meet the UK’s ambitious renewable energy targets. Kelly noted Burrows’ proven track record in managing control centres and fostering innovation, which will be crucial as the facility prepares for forthcoming grid reforms and the increasing demands associated with the transition to clean energy.
### Responsibilities and Future Directions
Burrows will be tasked with overseeing the implementation of new software platforms and guiding the operations team to adapt to the evolving energy landscape. He expressed his enthusiasm for leading the ControlCentre, recognising its critical role in providing oversight of the UK’s clean energy infrastructure.
The ControlCentre not only manages renewable energy assets but also aims to enhance its capacity and capabilities to tackle the challenges posed by a rapidly changing grid and the requirements for energy security. With plans for further growth in staff numbers, the ControlCentre is well-positioned to continue making a significant contribution to the UK’s renewable energy sector.
### Conclusion
As the UK strives to meet its renewable energy goals, the leadership of experienced professionals like Gordon Burrows will be essential in navigating the complexities of energy management and ensuring the successful integration of renewable resources into the national grid. Natural Power’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence under Burrows’ guidance is expected to play a vital role in shaping the future of renewable energy in the UK.
