General – WindEurope
According to multiple well-placed sources familiar with the matter, Tinne Van der Straeten, Belgium’s former federal Minister of Energy, is poised to become the next Chief Executive Officer of WindEurope, the leading European association for the wind energy sector.
While WindEurope has not yet formally confirmed the appointment, leaked information suggests the transition could take effect in early 2026, most likely in January.
Born on 1 April 1978, Van der Straeten served as Belgium’s federal Minister of Energy from October 2020 until early 2025 in the Government-De Croo. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in accelerating Belgium’s energy transition, with a particular emphasis on offshore wind.
Under her leadership, Belgium raised its offshore wind ambition to 8 GW by 2030, positioning the country as a frontrunner in North Sea renewable energy. She was also closely involved in landmark international initiatives, including cross-border cooperation on energy islands and grid connections with Denmark and Germany—projects widely seen as critical to Europe’s future energy security.
Van der Straeten would succeed Giles Dickson, who announced in July 2025 that he would step down after nearly a decade at the helm. Dickson’s tenure has been marked by WindEurope’s growing influence in EU policy debates on renewables, industrial competitiveness, and energy resilience.
Today, WindEurope represents more than 600 companies and national associations spanning the entire wind energy value chain. Its voice is instrumental in shaping European legislation and market frameworks at a time when wind power is central to the EU’s climate and security objectives.
If confirmed, Van der Straeten’s appointment would represent a rare and powerful bridge between national political leadership and European sector representation. Her deep understanding of policymaking, combined with hands-on experience in delivering large-scale offshore wind strategies, would place her in a strong position to guide the industry through its next phase of growth and transformation.
As Europe pushes to scale renewables faster than ever, all eyes will now be on WindEurope’s official announcement – and on what could be one of the most consequential leadership appointments in the sector in recent years.
