Media releases

Malcolm has played a highly influential role at the intersection of energy, climate policy and economic reform, both during his time in public office and through his continued engagement with international energy institutions. As Prime Minister of Australia from 2015 to 2018, he was a leading advocate for clean energy innovation, emissions reduction, and pragmatic approaches to balancing energy security, affordability and decarbonisation.

In his current role as President of the International Hydropower Association, Mr Turnbull continues to shape international dialogue on the role of renewable energy - particularly sustainable hydropower - in enabling a reliable, low‑carbon global energy system and supporting economic development.

Mr Turnbull formally received his Honorary Fellowship during a visit to the Energy Institute’s offices in London, where he discussed the energy transition with a cross‑section of EI members, spanning Fellows, early‑career professionals and Young Professionals. He was also interviewed by EI Young Professional Ruaraidh Swainson for the Institute’s in‑house magazine, New Energy World.

Dr Nick Wayth FEI, Chief Executive of the Energy Institute, said:

“Malcolm Turnbull is a globally respected and influential voice on energy and climate issues, combining political leadership with a deep understanding of the technological, economic and social dimensions of the energy transition.

“From advancing clean energy policy as Prime Minister of Australia to championing sustainable hydropower on the international stage, his work exemplifies the kind of informed, pragmatic leadership our sector needs. We are delighted to welcome him as an Honorary Fellow of the Energy Institute.”

Commenting, Malcolm Turnbull HonFEI said:

“It is an honour to be recognised by the Energy Institute, which brings together a global community of energy professionals united by a shared purpose. The scale of the energy challenge is immense, but so too is the capability of the people working across this sector. By connecting expertise, fostering professionalism, and investing in people, organisations like the Energy Institute make the transition not just possible, but achievable.”

Across a career spanning public service, law, business and international advocacy, Mr Turnbull has consistently engaged with the challenges facing the global energy system, including climate change, infrastructure investment and the transition to net zero. He remains an active contributor to global discussions on energy policy, climate action and sustainable development.

Honorary Fellowship is awarded by the Energy Institute Council, led by President Andy Brown OBE FEI, to individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to advancing the Institute’s mission - namely the promotion for the public benefit of the science of energy and fuels in all applications and uses.

Recent recipients include former US Secretary of State and Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry HonFEI; Lei Zhang, Founder and CEO of Envision; and Catherine MacGregor HonFEI, Chief Executive Officer of ENGIE.

ENDS

Notes for editors

1. Malcolm Turnbull’s biography can be found at: https://www.hydropower.org/team/malcolm-turnbull
2. For media enquiries, please contact Neil Michie, EI Head of Communications & Marketing 020 7467 7132, [email protected]
3. About the Energy Institute (EI) - The EI is the chartered professional membership body for people who work across the world of energy.
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