4th May, 2026
The Smart Energy Council (SEC) today announced the appointment of David McElrea as Chief Executive Officer, following a planned and orderly leadership transition and a comprehensive executive search process.
This transition reflects continuity of leadership. Outgoing CEO John Grimes will finish in the role on 15 May, after leading the organisation for 18 years, and will remain involved in an advisory capacity, including contributing to its international engagement.
SEC Chair Don Henry said the Board had undertaken a rigorous process to identify the organisation’s next leader.
“Following a comprehensive executive search process, the Board is confident it has appointed the right leader for the next phase of the Smart Energy Council’s work,” Mr Henry said.
“David McElrea is an outstanding candidate with a strong combination of leadership experience, policy expertise and deep engagement across government, industry and stakeholders.“
“Under John Grimes’ leadership, the Smart Energy Council has become a highly effective and respected voice for renewable energy in Australia. This appointment builds on that foundation and positions the organisation for continued growth and impact.”
David McElrea is a senior executive leader with extensive experience at the intersection of government, industry and policy. He currently serves as Chief Advocacy Officer at the SEC, where he leads national advocacy strategy and engagement. Prior to this, he was Deputy Chief of Staff to Tanya Plibersek, while Minister for the Environment and Water, where he oversaw major policy, regulatory and legislative initiatives. He has also held senior roles in the union movement and at the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and brings deep experience in organisational leadership, policy development and stakeholder engagement.
Mr McElrea said it was a privilege to be appointed at a critical moment for Australia’s energy transition.
“The Smart Energy Council plays a central role in shaping Australia’s clean energy future, and my focus will be on delivering strong, effective advocacy and accelerating the deployment of renewable energy and storage,” Mr McElrea said.
“Our members are at the centre of everything we do. 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.”
Mr Grimes said the organisation was well placed for the future.
“It has been a privilege to lead the Smart Energy Council and to work with our members and partners to help drive Australia’s renewable energy transformation,” Mr Grimes said.
“The organisation is well positioned, and David is the right person to lead it through the next phase. He 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.”
The Smart Energy Council is in a strong financial position, with a robust balance sheet and growing membership, and remains focused on accelerating renewable energy and supporting Australia’s clean energy transition and emissions reduction.
-ENDS-
Media contact: Tim Lamacraft – tim@smartenergy.org.au – 0448 972 192
