“The right person:” SEC names new leader to replace long-serving CEO John Grimes

The Smart Energy Council has completed the search to replace its CEO of nearly two decades, announcing the selection David McElrea, currently the organisation’s chief advocacy officer, to take up the role when John Grimes departs in mid-May.

Grimes announced in late February his plans to vacate the SEC CEO role on May 15, almost 18 years after taking the helm at the independent Australian renewables body.

A stalwart of the Australian renewable energy industry – and key negotiator of game-changing policies like the Cheaper Home Batteries rebate – Grimes leaves big shoes to fill, although he will remain involved in the SEC in an advisory capacity, including contributing to its international engagement.

But McElrea, whose professional background is in senior government relations and policy strategy – and includes a stint as chief of staff to former federal environment minister Tanya Plibersek – seems a good fit.

“Under John Grimes’ leadership, the Smart Energy Council has become a highly effective and respected voice for renewable energy in Australia,” aid SEC chair Don Henry in a statement on Monday.

“This appointment builds on that foundation and positions the organisation for continued growth and impact.

“David McElrea is an outstanding candidate with a strong combination of leadership experience, policy expertise and deep engagement across government, industry and stakeholders.”

As well as his roles in federal government, McElrea has also held senior roles in the union movement and at the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

In an email to SEC members on Monday, McElrea said the organisation’s focus would remain unchanged under his leadership, in advocating for and supporting the continued growth of renewable energy and storage and of ambitious climate action.

“Climate change is an existential challenge and one of the most important economic and environmental issues we face. Accelerating the deployment of renewable energy is central to the response, and the Smart Energy Council has a critical role to play in that work.

“My priority as CEO will be to continue delivering for members, driving effective policy outcomes, strengthening our collective voice, and ensuring the organisation remains focused, credible and influential.

“We will continue to work closely with industry to ensure their priorities are reflected in policy outcomes, and to provide a strong, unified voice as the sector continues to grow and evolve.”

Grimes, who will this week attend his last Smart Energy Council Conference & Exhibition as SEC CEO, said on Monday that McElrea was “the right person” to lead the organisation through the next phase.

“[David] brings strong leadership, deep policy expertise and a clear understanding of the sector. I look forward to continuing to support the Smart Energy Council’s work, including through international engagement.”

Grimes is taking on a new role as chief executive of the Renewable Energy Council Asia Pacific (RECAP), a standalone organisation created by the SEC that will operate as its regional strategic partner.

In this role, Grimes says he will continue to represent SEC members internationally, while also advocating for the accelerated deployment of renewables and storage across the Asia Pacific.

You can listen to Renew Economy’s December 2025 interview with David McElrea on the Solar Insiders podcast, here.

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