Gas Networks Ireland Chief Engineer James Burchill has been appointed Vice President of Marcogaz, the technical association representing Europe's gas infrastructure sector, in a move that strengthens Ireland's voice in shaping the future of sustainable energy networks across the continent.

As reported by Gas Networks Ireland, Burchill will serve as Chairman of the Technical Coordination Committee within Marcogaz, a group that brings together the leads of all technical working groups across the organisation. In the role, he will help guide Marcogaz's work in supporting collaboration, technical excellence, and innovation across Europe's gas infrastructure industry.

Burchill said: "The energy landscape across Europe is evolving rapidly and organisations such as Marcogaz play a vital role in fostering collaboration, sharing expertise and supporting innovation across the industry. This appointment is not only a personal honour but also an important recognition of the expertise and growing contribution of Gas Networks Ireland to the European energy landscape."

He added that the role provides "an important platform for both Gas Networks Ireland and Ireland to contribute to discussions on the future of Europe's energy infrastructure, ensuring that Irish experience, innovation and ambitions are represented at a European level."

Manuel Coxe, Secretary General of Marcogaz, said Burchill brings "a wealth of technical knowledge, leadership experience and strategic insight to the role," stating that Europe's energy transition "demands bold leadership" and that Burchill "brings exactly that."

Marcogaz brings together gas infrastructure operators, technical experts, and industry stakeholders from across Europe to collaborate on safety, innovation, decarbonisation, and the long-term development of gas networks as the sector transitions toward renewable and low-carbon gases.

Gas Networks Ireland operates and maintains Ireland's national gas network and is actively progressing renewable gas and hydrogen readiness as central pillars of the country's transition to a lower-carbon energy system. Burchill's appointment further elevates Irish expertise within key European energy organisations at a critical period for the continent's infrastructure evolution.

Find out more about James Burchill's Marcogaz appointment and Gas Networks Ireland's European engagement in the complete announcement.