New CEO at Eclipse Power Group signals commitment to innovation and industry leadership in UK Networks

Eclipse Power today announced that after four years at the helm, Spencer Thompson will begin his path to retirement in April 2026 after a distinguished career of 35 years in the Electricity and Rail industry. Emma Ford has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from February 2026 as part of a three-month handover from Spencer ensuring a smooth leadership transition and continued strategic alignment.

Since 2021, Spencer has grown the business significantly and has overseen transformation for Eclipse Power, helping to position the company as a forward-thinking grid innovator. Under his leadership he has created new value in complementary business lines, establishing an electricity networks group to meet customer and market demands.

“It has been an absolute privilege to lead Eclipse Power Group over the past four years,” said Spencer Thompson. “Together, we have delivered growth, innovation, a strong position in the industry and a solid foundation for the future. As I begin my retirement journey to spend more time on my health and with my family, I am looking forward to supporting the business in an advisory capacity and to see it move confidently into its next chapter led by Emma. Emma is a fantastic person to pick up the reigns with her experience, pace and tenacity.”

Emma Ford joins Eclipse Power Group with more than 20 years’ experience across the UK and European energy infrastructure sector, having led major operational, cultural and commercial transformations within complex environments. Most recently, she served as Vice President and Head of Generation at Ørsted, where she oversaw a portfolio of offshore wind assets. Prior to Ørsted, Emma held senior leadership roles at National Grid and E.ON, directing large-scale electricity and gas infrastructure programmes, interconnectors, and renewable energy projects.

Throughout her career, Emma has led teams delivering measurable and lasting impact – from restoring a critical international interconnector asset to service ahead of schedule, delivering major organisational transformations, through to setting new standards for wellbeing and performance across the utilities sector.

“Eclipse has something genuinely special – a team that combines deep expertise with a real sense of purpose, innovation and curiosity,” said Emma. “I’m looking forward to building on that foundation, helping the business grow sustainably, while continuing to do what it does best – challenge convention, empower people and deliver lasting value for customers and partners.”

“My ambition is to strengthen Eclipse’s position as the most trusted and innovative independent network operator – one that combines technical excellence with the agility and creativity of a forward-thinking business. What attracted me to Eclipse was its personality. This is a company that defines itself not just by what it does, but how it does it: through collaboration, curiosity and a relentless drive for better. The alignment with my own leadership philosophy made this an easy decision.”

This leadership transition marks the next phase of growth for Eclipse Power Group as it continues to strengthen its position as one of the UK’s most trusted and forward-thinking independent network operators.

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About Eclipse Power Group

The Eclipse Power Group delivers end-to-end services for hassle-free electricity connections. The group comprises of a leading Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), a specialist provider of microgrid and private network solutions, and an expert grid consultancy service. Together, the Eclipse Power Group simplifies electricity connections across a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial projects, including data centres, EV charging infrastructure, renewable generation, and battery storage sites.

www.eclipsepower.co.uk