Gas Networks Ireland has appointed Diarmuid Collins as Director of Customer and Business Development, strengthening its senior leadership team as the organisation advances its strategy to replace natural gas with renewable gases including biomethane and green hydrogen.

As reported by Gas Networks Ireland, Collins brings more than 15 years of experience with the organisation, having held senior roles across Treasury, Investor Relations, and Commercial Finance. He also served as Acting Chief Financial Officer for a 13-month period during a CEO recruitment process.

David Kelly, CEO of Gas Networks Ireland, said: "Diarmuid has made a significant contribution to Gas Networks Ireland over the past 15 years and has consistently demonstrated strong commercial acumen, leadership and a deep understanding of our business. His experience across finance, strategy and the wider energy sector, together with his commitment to delivering value for our customers and stakeholders, make him exceptionally well placed to lead this important function."

Collins said: "Ireland's transition to a low-carbon economy presents significant opportunities, particularly in the scale-up of renewable gases such as biomethane and hydrogen. I look forward to working with colleagues, customers and stakeholders to accelerate this progress and help deliver a more sustainable, resilient and secure energy system for Ireland."

In his new role, Collins will lead customer and business development activities with responsibility for supporting Gas Networks Ireland's ambition to scale renewable gas across the national network. He will also hold executive responsibility for Aurora Telecom, a division of Gas Networks Ireland.

Renewable gases, including biomethane and green hydrogen, are central to Gas Networks Ireland's long-term decarbonisation strategy, complementing intermittent renewable electricity generation and strengthening Ireland's energy security by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Collins holds a Business degree from the University of Limerick and a Master's degree in Economics and Finance from the National University of Ireland, Maynooth. He is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.