Jerry Stokes appointed VP of EPIA's board of directors

SCHAFFHAUSEN, SWITZERLAND: Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd announced that Jerry Stokes, president of Suntech Europe, has been elected as a director and VP of the European Photovoltaic Industry Association's (EPIA's) eight-member board of directors.

Dr. Winfried Hoffmann, a member of the Supervisory Board of SMA Solar Technology AG, was appointed as the new president of the EPIA. The elections were held recently at the EPIA's annual general meeting in Brussels.

"Many challenges lie ahead for our industry; but so do great opportunities. Over the last few decades, our industry has matured significantly. Now, we're poised to drive a revolution of the way Europe produces and consumes energy," said Jerry Stokes, president of Suntech Europe.

"As the leading European solar association, EPIA has a major role to play in promoting photovoltaics and engaging policy makers; promoting regional and global dialogue on key issues; and facilitating legislative and market transparency and stability for our member companies. I am honored to support EPIA in this important mission and look forward to taking a more active role to advance the solar industry," Stokes added.

Jerry Stokes has been actively involved in solar PV, fuel cells, and energy conversion, distribution and storage industries in Europe for over 20 years. He joined Suntech in 2006 and, as President of Suntech Europe, is responsible for Suntech's growth strategy and development in Europe. Stokes has also led Suntech's European effort to promote sustainability, climate dialogue and policy development to take advantage of readily available, cost-effective solar solutions.

He has served on the United Nations Secretary General Advisory Board on Energy and Climate, in the Copenhagen Climate Council, and the Prince of Wales's European Corporate Leaders Group on Climate Change. In addition, Stokes is an active supporter of PV CYCLE's solar module recycling initiative.