Sulev Alajõe, Director of the Estonian Islands Energy Agency, is stepping down from his position. A public recruitment process to appoint a new Director will be announced shortly.
Founded in 2023, the Estonian Islands Energy Agency is a development organisation established by the local authorities of the islands of Western Estonia, the Saaremaa and Hiiumaa Entrepreneurs’ Associations, Saare Arenduskeskus, and Tallinn University of Technology. The Agency’s mission is to support local authorities, communities, apartment associations and businesses in modernising their energy systems.
The Agency helps initiate and implement projects that strengthen energy security, increase the uptake of renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. Its work also supports the sustainable development of the islands and promotes energy savings.
According to Saaremaa Deputy Mayor Laura Heinsaar, the Estonian Islands Energy Agency has built a strong foundation for its continued development during its first three years of operation.
“Sulev Alajõe led the Estonian Islands Energy Agency through its establishment and launch. Under his leadership, the Agency developed both its international and local cooperation networks and initiated several important development projects for the islands of Western Estonia.
His work laid the foundation for a number of long-term developments in the energy sector of the Western Estonian islands, the results of which will become increasingly visible in the years ahead. Sulev has made a significant contribution to building the Estonian Islands Energy Agency and establishing international partnerships that will enable the islands to access additional funding, expert consultants and specialist knowledge.
We are grateful to him for his contribution.
As the Agency enters its next stage of development, we see its role evolving into an even stronger partner for local authorities, communities and businesses. Alongside technical solutions, we consider it essential to continue focusing on public engagement, communication and meaningful dialogue between different stakeholders. This will also be one of the key priorities in the search for the Agency’s new Director,” said Heinsaar.
A public recruitment process for a new Director will be announced shortly. Until the new Director takes up the position, Taavi Liivandi, the Estonian Islands Energy Agency’s Mobility Consultant, will serve as Acting Director from 28 August.
