Experienced energy executive Andrew Bills has been appointed to head SA Power Networks as it continues to lead the transition to a net-100 per cent renewable energy system in South Australia.

Mr Bills brings extensive experience in energy and infrastructure in multiple roles across retail, supply chain and strategy, most recently as Chief Executive of CS Energy in Queensland, which provides electricity retail and generation support for commercial and industrial customers throughout the northern State. Before that Andrew was a key executive at Origin Energy.

Andrew will replace Rob Stobbe who is retiring as CEO of SA Power Networks after 13 years in the role, having steered the business through a major phase of the State’s transition toward a net-100% renewable energy system.

Under Mr Stobbe’s leadership, SA Power Networks has become recognised as a pioneer in managing the transition in a cost-efficient and innovative way that delivers benefits for customers and the community.

Announcing the appointment of Mr Bills, Chairman of the SA Power Networks Board, Peter Tulloch, said “Andrew will bring extensive energy industry experience to the business given his incredibly strong background in retailing, energy markets and generation, including renewables.

“We made a very thorough and rigorous search for the right person to lead SA Power Networks and Andrew made an impressive presentation regarding the future of energy.

“I know he is very excited by the way in which SA Power Networks has been pioneering changes in the way the electricity distribution network is managed to support the transition to a renewables-based and customer-driven energy system.”

Mr Bills said “I am looking forward to the opportunity to build on the impressive performance that SA Power Networks has delivered over many years. South Australia is at the forefront of renewables in Australia and SA Power Networks has a key role to play in the energy transition.”

Meanwhile, Mr Tulloch praised Rob Stobbe for his leadership over many years at SA Power Networks. “Andrew has big shoes to fill as Rob has carved an incredible career in energy over many years that is respected across Australia.

“The Board extends its deepest thanks to Rob. He has been a leader with a clear objective of ensuring customers and the SA community are at the heart of how SA Power Networks goes about its business. “We wish him and his wife Prue all the best as they enjoy his well-deserved retirement.”

Picture: Andrew Bills, incoming CEO of SA Power Networks.

Andrew Bills

Andrew Bills has over 25 years' experience in the energy industry across the public and private sectors, covering power generation, retail supply, distribution, LPG and energy trading, most recently as CEO at CS Energy, a large Queensland-based generation company.

Andrew’s previous roles include executive roles at Origin Energy, Babcock and Brown Power, Stanwell Corporation and as a Director at PwC. Andrew holds an MBA, BA and is a Graduate of the AICD. Andrew is currently a Director of the Australian Energy Council.