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Leading trade body in bold name change move
25 May 2012
Signalling their intent to represent the wider energy and utilities sector, trade body SBGI (formerly The Society of British Gas Industries) agreed at its Annual General Meeting on May 10th to change its name to "Energy and Utilities Alliance" (EUA).
The trade association, based at Kenilworth in the West Midlands, has been in existence since 1905. Historically it was the only trade association to represent the whole of the onshore gas industry. More recently, its scope extended to other parts of the energy and utility sector.
Last year SBGI recruited former government Minister, Mike Foster, to head up the organisation. Mr Foster had previously been Head of Communications at the international charity WaterAid.
Speaking after the AGM, Mike Foster said:
"Our name change is a significant step forward for the organisation. SBGI is widely respected by those who know the organisation. But its name no longer does justice to the wide range of members we have. As a name, Energy and Utilities Alliance better reflects this broad base; from gas storage to smart meters, from pipes to high efficiency boilers, from industrial boilers to renewables, our new name says who we are."
"EUA provides a leading industry voice which helps shape the future policy direction within the sector. Using our wealth of expertise, and over 100 years of experience, we act to further the interests of our members and the wider community in working towards a sustainable, energy secure and efficient future."
"There are enormous challenges ahead in the energy and related industrial sector. Rising energy costs, issues over security of supply, greenhouse gas emissions and UK jobs and skills are at the forefront of concerns. Working in partnership with others, EUA intends to be a powerful voice for the industry, speaking out when it matters, as the UK faces these challenges in the years ahead."
Ends
Notes to editors
EUA currently has three divisions:- HHIC (Heating and Hotwater Industry Council); UN (SBGI Utility Networks) and ICOM (Industrial and Commercial Energy Association)
For further information contact Mike Foster 01926 513720 mikefoster@sbgi.org.uk
