Mike Wilks
Partner, expert in Energy Networks
Contact Mike
"Energy networks are the most critical enabler of net-zero. Without a far-reaching and extensive plan to transform them, it’s impossible to deliver a cost-effective, secure and sustainable transition to renewable forms of energy. The next twenty years will be crucial to this effort."
At a glance:
Joined Baringa in
2021
Works across
Energy Networks, within Global Energy and Resources
Favourite place
Sydney, or closer to home, the Lake District.
In detail:
Mike is the consummate energy network expert. He’s occupied leadership roles in major energy companies, consulting firms and regulators. He first cut his teeth at National Grid shaping the future GB power network and wholesale market before joining Enron as an energy trading expert. For the last 20 years, Mike has run projects for the European Commission, national governments, regulators, energy utilities and investors in over 20 countries worldwide. Over the course of his career, Mike has assessed business plans for every GB energy network, spanning the last 15 years and eight different regulatory reviews.
Mike has led energy network operational reviews and regulatory processes, developed net-zero strategies, undertaken investor due diligence, shaped industry codes and chaired European conferences. He’s also run major industry transformation projects including the legal separation of National Grid’s System Operator business. Today, he brings his exhaustive knowledge of energy networks into transformative effect for Baringa clients. Energy is a fast-evolving sector and Mike’s biggest focus is helping his clients to fulfil their role in ensuring a secure, cost effective and equitable energy transition to net-zero.
Mike loves building high-performing, inclusive teams, incorporating the best of client and advisor expertise and skills. One team, one common purpose. He’s passionate about the role energy network transformation plays in reaching net-zero; and equally the need to support transformation of the policy and regulatory landscape. Mike is a candid communicator, giving his clients direct and honest advice. When it comes to client projects, the bigger and more complex the challenge the better - he’s consumed with arriving at the right outcome for the client, and in many cases as a result, for the energy sector and nation too.
Mike expends a lot of energy away from work, competing at National Masters level in swimming and triathlon. As a qualified Swim England coach, he’s taken his local junior swimming club all the way to the national finals. When he isn’t working, competing in sport or helping someone perfect their tumble turns - Mike enjoys roaming the Lake District, a hobby he finds immensely relaxing and recharging.
Are digital and AI delivering what your business needs?
Digital and AI can solve your toughest challenges and elevate your business performance. But success isn’t always straightforward. Where can you unlock opportunity? And what does it take to set the foundation for lasting success?