David Acres – Generation Environment Manager, EDF Energy

I graduated in Engineering from Cambridge University in 1987. Initially I worked on the design of civil engineering projects, becoming a Chartered Civil Engineer and CIWEM member.

Increasingly, my work included the environmental management of construction impacts so I decided to shift my career pathway into environment. I completed a Masters in Environmental Management at Strathclyde University in 1996. Following this, I worked for Scottish Power on environmental impact assessments of new power stations. I then joined WS Atkins Environment and worked as an environmental consultant on air quality management, environmental auditing and EMS implementation.

I moved on to work with TXU Energy, where I organised projects to manage the environmental impacts of electricity generation. A main appeal of the role was the very wide range of tasks involved. Building on my experience with TXU, I moved to another power company, EDF Energy, to work as generation environment manager.  I provide a focus for the management of the environmental risks surrounding the generation activities of the company. A key activity is to identify threats and opportunities from changes to environmental legislation, regulation and policy.  In addressing these, I represent the company in discussions with the Government and the environmental regulator.

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