US data-driven energy analytics outfit Utopus Insights has brought in Michael Wilkinson to take on the role of chief product officer.
Wilkinson, who was previously director of energy digitalisation at DNV GL, will lead product development and strategic roadmapping for the New York-headquartered company’s expansion into the renewables market, reporting to CEO Chandu Visweswariah.
“Utopus is a company that combines my passion for digital technology and data analytics, with the overarching ambition to be a part of the solution to tackle climate change,” said Wikinson, who recently joined a Recharge digital roundtable panel on digitalisation.
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“I strongly believe that digitalistion is a key enabler of the energy transition, allowing renewables to move us towards a net-zero-carbon future.”
Visweswariah added: "With [Wilkinson’s] rich experience, technical rigor and depth, track record of delivering results and leadership skills, I am confident that our product team will achieve a quantum leap of innovation under his stewardship.
Wilkinson’s has worked for nearly two decades in renewable energy sector, starting in condition monitoring for offshore wind turbines and later with energy consultancy, Garrad Hassan, which was bought by DNV GL.
Along with Wilkinson, José Sebastiao has been promoted to the post of chief operating officer, from his current role as vice president of operations. He replaces Utopus’ co-founder Kevin Warren, who is transitioning to the role of chief financial officer.
Utopus was acquired by wind OEM Vestas in 2018 for $100m, in a strategic step in the turbine maker’s reinvention as a new energy solutions company.
