RenewableNI has today announced the appointment of Steph Dunlop as Chair, ushering in a new chapter for the organisation at a pivotal moment for Northern Ireland’s drive for energy security.
Steph Dunlop, Policy Manager at SSE plc will step into the role as RenewableNI Chair alongside Sara Tinsley, Planning and Environmental Consents Manager at Energia Renewables, who is continuing in her role of Deputy Chair for a second term.
Speaking ahead of her Chair tenure beginning on 6 July, Steph Dunlop said: “I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Chair of RenewableNI.
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“Recent global instability and rising fossil fuel prices have underlined the importance of building out our own domestic energy supply. Renewable energy provides the homegrown, affordable and clean energy source that can strengthen Northern Ireland’s energy security both now and for the future.
“With Northern Ireland at a critical moment in its energy transition and in urgent need of a policy environment that reflects this, I look forward, as Chair, to supporting RenewableNI and its members as we continue to champion the key role renewable energy can play for Northern Ireland’s energy future.”
The two-year roles of RenewableNI Chair and Deputy are drawn from and voted for by member organisations. They provide strategic leadership, guiding the sector and ensuring alignment between members, policy priorities and organisational direction.
Welcoming the appointment, RenewableNI Director Mark Richardson said: “Steph will bring valuable experience to the role of Chair at what is a defining moment for Northern Ireland’s energy system. Renewable energy has a central role to play in addressing the current pressures on energy costs, security of supply and economic growth.
“Steph’s strong track record, clear leadership and deep understanding of the opportunities ahead will be critical as RenewableNI continues to inform the energy policy debate in Northern Ireland.
“I am equally pleased that Sara Tinsley will continue as Deputy Chair, providing important continuity and experience following a successful first term in the role. On behalf of the RenewableNI team and our members I also want to place on record my sincere thanks to Tamasin Fraser for the lasting impact she has made to RenewableNI and in advancing the sector as Chair.”
Sara Tinsley said: “I am delighted to welcome our new Chair, Steph to RenewableNI. At a time of both challenge and opportunity for the renewable energy sector, her leadership, vision, and commitment will be invaluable in driving our mission forward. I look forward to working closely together to build on our shared ambition and strengthen the impact of renewable energy across Northern Ireland. Together, we will continue to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.”
About Chair and Deputy
Steph Dunlop,
Policy Manager, SSE plc
Steph is Policy Manager for Northern Ireland and Ireland at FTSE UK-listed SSE plc, delivering strategic insight on the energy sector and policy landscape. In this role, she supports SSE’s onshore and offshore teams to engage effectively with government departments, regulators, policymakers and system operators in both markets. Previously, Steph worked at Energia Group as a Renewable Energy Policy Analyst, where she developed expertise in renewable integration, energy storage, and cross-border market alignment.
She also served as a U.S. diplomat, where she was responsible for economic policy and engagement work in Hong Kong and Macau and supported high-level U.S. delegations. She holds an MA in Diplomacy and International Political Economy.
Steph sits on the CBI NI Council, the CBI Energy Working Group, the NI Chamber Energy Group, IBEC Energy and Climate Policy Committee and various Wind Energy Ireland working groups.
Sara Tinsley BSc, DipTP, MRTPI
Planning and Environmental Consents Manager, Energia Renewables
Elected as Deputy Chair in March 2024, Sara continues for a second term reflecting her continued leadership and contribution to the industry.
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A Chartered Town Planner, Sara is responsible for a team managing planning and environmental matters across Ireland, supporting the development of wind, solar, battery storage, hydrogen production, and emerging low-carbon technologies for a modern, integrated energy utility company operating across the island.
Prior to joining Energia Renewables, Sara worked in private consultancy and has extensive experience of the development industry, advancing schemes for a range of major clients including energy companies.
Sara has played an active role in shaping policy and industry collaboration, previously serving as the Chair of the RenewableNI Planning Working Group and sits on the Planning Committee for Wind Energy Ireland.
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