Dale Vince last night announced that he would be stepping down from his CEO role at Ecotricity, the company he founded in 1995.
The 60-year-old plans to stay on as Forest Green Rovers chairman and continue designs on the EcoPark, but will “pass the baton on” at his energy company to pursue a career in the political world.
In a statement on the company’s website, Mr Vince said that it’s “a huge decision – it’s been my life for a long time and is arguably my life’s work.
But it’s the right decision at the right time – our pipeline of green energy projects is way beyond what we can fund ourselves, while at the same time, the country’s need for new sources of renewable energy has never been bigger.”
It’s time to move on from Ecotricity. I’m looking for a new owner as I consider a move into politics. The next general election is the most important of our all lives, and I want to play a part one way or another. I’ll be writing more later today. https://t.co/ISm1fegIOr
— Dale Vince (@DaleVince) March 31, 2022
A Rovers spokesperson told Parklife Sport the news will have “no change to FGR; it’s still owned and operated by Dale.”
During his 32 years as CEO, Vince has seen the company grow from a single windmill in Gloucestershire, to supplying around 200,000 homes and businesses across Britain with renewable energy from the wind and sun.
The company also employs more than 800 people and has a turnover of over £300m this year.
Vince said that stepping back would open the opportunity for him to “play a part in the next general election in some way or another.
We have everything we need to get to net zero as a country, we have the technology, economics is on our side, as are the public – we clearly have the need, what we lack are politicians that get it and the policies that will help make it happen – faster.”
I believe this will be the most important election of our lives.”
Breaking news this morning as @FGRFC_Official's Dale Vince has stepped down from his role as CEO of Ecotricity in order to pursue a career in politics.
What does it mean for the future of #FGR? @_CameronSmith10 spoke to @JamieMonks8 for all the information 👇#WeAreFGR💚 pic.twitter.com/UYQzuJHKDA
— Park Life Sport (@ParkLife_Sport) April 1, 2022
Rovers host Scunthorpe United at the Fully Charge New Lawn this Saturday as Rob Edwards’ side look to strengthen their grip on League Two promotion.