6th May, 2026
The Smart Energy Council has paid a fitting tribute to Chief Executive Officer John Grimes at the Smart Energy Excellence Awards & Gala Dinner 2026, bringing together the industry’s leading voices to celebrate his 18 years of leadership.
Held on 6 May at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney, the evening welcomed a strong gathering of industry leaders, policymakers and key stakeholders, a true reflection of the influence and respect John has built across Australia’s renewable energy sector.
INDUSTRY LEADERS COME TOGETHER
The night saw a “who’s who” of the smart energy industry in attendance, alongside prominent voices in climate, policy and finance, underscoring the significance of the moment.
A dedicated tribute segment featured reflections from leading figures who have worked closely with John throughout his tenure.
The Hon. Matt Kean, Chair of the Climate Change Authority and Director at Wollemi Capital, spoke about John’s role in advancing the energy transition and his impact on policy and industry collaboration in Australia.
He was joined by Tim Buckley, Director of Climate Energy Finance, a globally recognised energy finance commentator with more than 30 years of experience, who highlighted the scale of transformation the sector has undergone during John’s leadership.
Don Henry, President of the Smart Energy Council Board, also addressed the audience, recognising John’s contribution to building a strong, connected industry and advancing sustainability both in Australia and globally.
A FITTING TRIBUTE TO 18 YEARS OF IMPACT
A special tribute video captured key milestones and achievements from John’s time as CEO, offering a powerful reflection on the growth of both the organisation and the broader renewable energy industry over nearly two decades.
The video featured messages and testimonials from key figures across government and industry, including Minister for the Environment and Water Hon Murray Watt, Minister for Climate Change and Energy Hon Chris Bowen, Hon Mick De Brenni, Hon Matt Kean, as well as industry leaders such as Dean Williamson (GoodWe Australia), Will Hall (Sigenergy) and Rodrigo Sauaia (Global Solar Council) – highlighting the breadth of John’s impact across policy, industry and the global energy transition.
John Grimes then took to the stage for his farewell address, marking the close of a defining chapter for the Smart Energy Council.
His leadership has spanned a period of extraordinary change – from the early days of solar adoption to Australia becoming a global leader in rooftop solar, battery storage and distributed energy.
John will continue in his role as CEO until 18 May 2026.
LOOKING AHEAD
The evening not only reflected on John’s legacy, but also pointed to the future of the organisation.
David McElrea, previously announced as the incoming CEO and currently Chief Advocacy Officer, was welcomed to the stage, marking the next chapter of leadership for the Smart Energy Council.
John will go on to serve as CEO of the Renewable Energy Council Asia-Pacific, continuing his contribution to the sector on a broader regional stage.
A MOMENT FOR THE INDUSTRY
While the Awards Gala celebrated excellence across the sector, the farewell to John Grimes stood as a defining moment of the evening, highlighting the people, leadership and collective effort behind Australia’s energy transition.
The Smart Energy Council acknowledges John’s enduring contribution and the strong foundation he leaves behind for the industry’s next chapter.
-ENDS-
Media contact: Tim Lamacraft – tim@smartenergy.org.au – 0448 972 192
