Statkraft Executive Takes Helm of SolarPower Europe Amid Energy Transition Push
Event summary
- Barbara Flesche, Statkraft’s Executive Vice President for Europe, elected President of SolarPower Europe on May 7, 2026.
- Flesche brings 20+ years of renewable energy experience across solar, wind, hydropower, and storage.
- SolarPower Europe will focus on rapid solar deployment, European supply chains, grid integration, and battery storage scaling.
- Statkraft employs around 6,200 people across 20 countries.
The big picture
Flesche’s appointment comes as Europe accelerates renewable deployment to enhance energy security and meet climate goals. SolarPower Europe’s influence has grown under current leadership, positioning solar as a cornerstone of Europe’s energy strategy. Statkraft, Europe’s largest renewable energy generator, gains a strategic voice in shaping solar policy through Flesche’s new role.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Framework
- Whether Flesche can accelerate supportive regulatory frameworks for solar and storage integration.
- Supply Chain Dynamics
- The pace at which SolarPower Europe strengthens European solar supply chains amid geopolitical tensions.
- Industry Alignment
- How Flesche leverages her cross-sector experience to unify solar, wind, and storage stakeholders.