Brussels, 17 October 2024 – The European Initiative for Energy Security (EIES) is pleased to announce the addition of Jannicke Nilsson of Equinor and Carlo Lazzarini of PWO AG to its Energy Security Leadership Council (ESLC), bolstering EIES’ efforts to promote actions to secure a sustainable and resilient energy future for Europe and its global allies.

Jannicke Nilsson, Executive Vice President for Safety, Security & Sustainability at Equinor, an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low carbon future. Nilsson brings extensive experience in operational integrity of energy infrastructure, security and protecting against evolving threats, particularly in offshore energy production.

Commenting on her new role within the ESLC, Nilsson noted, “Europe’s energy infrastructure is facing increasingly sophisticated threats—both physical and cyber-related—that have the potential to disrupt essential energy supplies. I look forward to contributing Equinor’s expertise in securing offshore energy production and safeguarding infrastructure, which is critical to ensuring the resilience and stability of Europe’s energy networks in the face of these challenges.”

Carlo Lazzarini, CEO of PWO AG, brings deep knowledge of the automotive supply chain and its critical role in the electrification of individual mobility —a key pillar of Europe’s energy and economic security. Lazzarini has been a leading voice in addressing the challenges posed by the high concentration of supply chains for essential materials and minerals needed for electric vehicle production.

He explained, “Electrification is essential not only for Europe’s energy transition but also for the broader economic security of the region. Achieving this transition requires access to key materials and minerals, many of which are concentrated in just a few regions globally. Through EIES, we are advancing practical strategies to secure these resources, promote the principles of materials circularity, and ensure that Europe’s clean industrial future is built on a foundation of sustainable manufacturing, driven by the values that define our region.”

Albéric Mongrenier, EIES’s Executive Director, commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Jannicke and Carlo to the Energy Security Leadership Council. Both bring with them an impressive and diverse track record of leadership and innovation in sectors critical to Europe’s energy future. Their contributions will significantly bolster EIES’s mission to secure a clean, resilient, and independent energy system for all Europeans.”

As members of the ESLC-E, Nilsson and Lazzarini will work alongside other industry leaders, policymakers, and former military officials to develop strategies that enhance Europe’s energy security, build resilience into supply chains, and ensure the continent’s strategic autonomy in the face of growing global challenges.

About EIES

The European Initiative for Energy Security (EIES) advocates for secure pan-European and national energy policies, dedicated to fostering collaboration between government and industry leaders. EIES seeks to address critical energy challenges and champion comprehensive solutions for the benefit of Europe's energy security, transition, and industrial competitiveness. EIES works with the Energy Security Leadership Council-Europe (ESLC-Europe), composed of retired and active military, political and business figures, to achieve these goals.

Contact: Isabelle Dupraz, EIES Deputy Director – idupraz@secureenergy.org