Clean Energy Council chief resigns

The chief executive of the Clean Energy Council will step down after nearly 11 years at the helm.

Kane Thornton will finish up on August 1 after serving in the role since November 2014.

Thornton joined the Clean Energy Council in 2010 as director of strategy and operations. He was promoted to deputy chief executive, a position he held for three years before taking on the top job.

His work has helped establish industry policies such as the Renewable Energy Target, Capacity Investment Scheme, Connection Reform Initiative and Hydrogen Headstart program.

He most recently initiated and led the industry's latest information campaign, Clean Energy Works for Australia, to inform the public about clean energy in the lead up to the 2025 Federal Election and beyond.

Thornton commented that it has been "an extraordinary privilege to lead the Clean Energy Council and be at the forefront of one of the most exciting, important and complex economic transitions in our lifetimes."

"I'm incredibly proud of what we achieved over the past 15 years - including doubling the amount of renewable in the past five years - and the strong foundation across the clean energy industry and peak body, to deliver the next phase of the energy transition," he said on LinkedIn.

"After 15 years of intense leadership, I will be taking some time off to decompress, reflect and recharge. Stopping, riding and hiking, family and friends."
Clean Energy Council chair Ross Rolfe said Thornton made "an indelible contribution to the Clean Energy Council and to the broader transformation of Australia's energy system."

"Kane has been at the forefront of creating the policy and the investment environment that has led to the transition and growth of the sector. During his tenure, renewables have become central to Australia's energy future, now representing more than 40% of Australia's energy mix. Under Kane's leadership, the organisation has grown in influence, professionalism and impact and is now one of the most significant, mature and influential peak bodies in Australia," Rolfe said.

The board has commenced a national search for a new chief executive.