Alex Hughes
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme)
Give us a brief description of your background
My name is Alex Hughes and I am an Operations Analyst at the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). MCS has an important role to play in the renewable energy sector, by ensuring quality of low carbon installations and raising consumer confidence.
Before joining MCS, I studied Geology at the University of Liverpool for 4 years. You can’t avoid thinking about the planet when you study geology and it allowed me to expand my knowledge of climate change and to understand both the short and long term impacts.
In my spare time, I enjoy working my way through my book shelf – whodunits are a particular favourite! I also enjoy practicing yoga and pilates, which are great for connecting the body and mind.
Who/what inspires you?
Although there are more women working in the energy sector than ever before, it still remains a male dominated world. I am inspired by organisations such as POWERful Women (PfW) who help to advance gender diversity and the leadership development of women in the energy sector.
Juliet Davenport (founder of Good Energy) is also an inspirational female leader, who has been instrumental in creating change and challenging the status quo in the energy sector.
What does the word leadership make you think of?
Recognising a problem that needs to be tackled and motivating those around you to work towards a solution. Effective leaders set direction, build an inspiring vision and create something new.
Leadership is a personal journey – anybody can learn to become a leader by improving particular skill sets.
How do you feel about taking part in the Future Leaders programme?
I am very excited and thankful to be involved in such a great programme. After completing module one, I have learnt so much already around the traits required for leadership and how I can put these new insights and ideas into action. It has been great to connect with individuals in the cohort who each have their own unique blend of abilities and experience, I am confident that we will achieve something great together!
What do you think are the keys to a sustainable future?
There is a pressing need to decarbonise the global energy system. Therefore, it is fundamental that energy governance (including policies, regulations & incentives) is transformed to ensure a sustainable future. Governance that places consumers at the centre of thinking will be crucial, to enable people to become more engaged with the energy system. Also, addressing the climate crisis is going to require innovation, so diversity and inclusion will be integral to ensure different views are heard and that there is a shift away from ‘group thinking’.
