WEALTH September 30, 2026 0 Comments

Why Activ8’s Bold Move to Install Energy Savant Barry Gavin as Chair Could Ignite a Market Shakeup You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Ever wonder what it takes to power up a company at the crossroads of renewable energy and booming sustainable finance? Well, buckle up—because Activ8 Energies is turning heads by appointing Barry Gavin as their independent non-executive director and chairperson of the board. With over 25 years navigating the complex world of sustainable finance, renewable energy, and governance, Gavin isn’t just stepping into a role—he’s ready to supercharge the firm’s journey into its next chapter. It’s not every day a seasoned pro with a track record spanning from Gaelectric to An Post, and from academic halls at UCD Michael Smurfit to the boardrooms of industry heavyweights, aligns with a company gearing up for a €200 million solar initiative. The real kicker? Activ8 has been holding steady for two decades in the Irish solar market, and Barry’s arrival signals a fresh, electrifying charge toward scaling new heights—while making solar power accessible without the usual upfront costs. Talk about perfect timing! Stay intrigued—there’s plenty more beneath the surface as Activ8 crafts the future of clean energy growth. LEARN MORE

Activ8 Energies has announced the appointment of Barry Gavin as independent non-executive director and chairperson of the board.

Gavin has more than 25 years’ experience across sustainable finance, renewable energy, investment and governance, including senior roles with Gaelectric, An Post and FuturEnergy Ireland.

He has extensive experience in corporate governance, strategy and investment, alongside sector expertise spanning power, heating/cooling, and transport.

He also has experience across residential, commercial and industrial markets.

Gavin is also an adjunct lecturer at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, where he lectures in Sustainable Finance and Renewable Energy Finance.

He is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and holds an MBA from Dublin City University.

He has been approved by the Central Bank to hold pre-approved controlled function (PCF) roles as an independent non-executive Director, and is a member of the Institute of Directors.

Commenting on his appointment, Gavin said: “This is an exciting time to join Activ8. Over two decades, the team has built a strong position in the Irish solar market, providing a solid platform for the next phase of growth.

“I’m looking forward to working with Ciaran, the Board and the wider team as the business develops. The energy transition has been a significant part of my executive, board and academic work, and I’m pleased to bring that experience and perspective to Activ8.”

Gavin’s appointment comes as Activ8 celebrates 20 years in business having recently launched a €200m all-island-funded solar initiative to help businesses install on-site solar systems without upfront costs through long-term power purchase agreements.

Ciaran Marron, founder and CEO of Activ8 Solar Energies, said: “Barry’s experience across sustainable finance and clean energy infrastructure is a significant addition to our board.

“He is a real authority in our sector, with a rare combination of executive and non-executive experience and a deep understanding of governance in regulated environments — all of which will support us well as we continue to grow.”

Photo: (l-r) Stephen Gallagher, MD of SSE Airtricity; Barry Gavin; and Ciaran Marron, CEO of Activ8. (Pic: supplied)