ScottishPower is today (2 December) pleased to announce the appointment of one of Scotland's leading champions of energy consumer rights as its new Head of External Business and Community Relations.

Ann Loughrey, who takes up her post at the beginning of January, has been director of fuel poverty charity Energy Action Scotland (EAS) for the past 12 years.

She also serves on a number of committees related to energy, social and consumer interests, including the Scottish Committee of energywatch, OFGEM's Social Action Plan Review Group, and National Energy Action.

One of her key achievements has been to put the issue of fuel poverty firmly 'on the map', both politically and publicly.

Charles Berry, ScottishPower's UK Executive Director, said: "I am delighted to welcome Ann to ScottishPower as she will bring a wealth of experience on how we can continue improving our services, particularly to our most vulnerable customers."

"She already knows the Company well and, as a champion for consumers on energy related matters, the appointment underlines ScottishPower's commitment to tackling such important issues as fuel poverty and energy efficiency."

Ann Loughrey said: "My appointment with ScottishPower will allow me to  build on my work with EAS. With fuel poverty now a recognised issue, the  best way to work to eradicate it is to work with a progressive company who  are keen to take action to help prevent fuel poverty, and improve energy  efficiency."

Further information

Colin McSeveny               0141 636 4515