Gas Networks Ireland has welcomed the appointment of its Chief Engineer, James Burchill, as Vice President of Marcogaz, the technical association representing Europe’s gas infrastructure sector.
The appointment was announced at the Marcogaz General Assembly on 18 June 2026 in Warsaw, Poland. As Vice President, James will serve as Chairman of the Technical Coordination Committee in Marcogaz, a group that gathers all leads of technical groups, and will help guide the organisation’s work in supporting collaboration, technical excellence and innovation across Europe’s gas infrastructure industry.
The General Assembly also elected Diego Modolell, Vice-Director of the Swiss Industry Association for Water, Gas and Heat (SVGW), as President for the coming term.
Marcogaz brings together gas infrastructure operators, technical experts and industry stakeholders from across Europe to collaborate on safety, innovation, decarbonisation and the future development of gas networks. The organisation plays a key role in supporting the evolution of Europe’s energy infrastructure as the sector transitions towards renewable and low-carbon gases.
As Vice President, James will work alongside industry leaders from across Europe to support Marcogaz’s strategic objectives and contribute to discussions on the future of energy networks, gas safety, innovation and sustainability.
Commenting on his appointment, James Burchill said:
“I am delighted to take up the role of Vice President of Marcogaz and to have the opportunity to contribute to the important work being undertaken across the European gas infrastructure sector.
“The energy landscape across Europe is evolving rapidly and organisations such as Marcogaz play a vital role in fostering collaboration, sharing expertise and supporting innovation across the industry.
“This appointment is not only a personal honour but also an important recognition of the expertise and growing contribution of Gas Networks Ireland to the European energy landscape. It provides an important platform for both Gas Networks Ireland and Ireland to contribute to discussions on the future of Europe’s energy infrastructure, ensuring that Irish experience, innovation and ambitions are represented at a European level.
“I look forward to working with Marcogaz President Diego Modolell and colleagues from across Europe to support the development of safe, sustainable and resilient energy networks for the future.”
Manuel Coxe Marcogaz’s Secretary General, said:
“James Burchill's appointment as Vice President of Marcogaz is a significant moment for Gas Networks Ireland, and for Ireland's standing in European energy. James brings a wealth of technical knowledge, leadership experience and strategic insight to the role.
“Europe's energy transition demands bold leadership. James brings exactly that.
We look forward to working closely with him in the years ahead.”
Gas Networks Ireland plays a critical role in Ireland’s energy system, operating and maintaining the national gas network and supporting the country’s transition to a lower-carbon future through initiatives including renewable gas and hydrogen readiness.
James’s appointment further strengthens Ireland’s representation within key European energy organisations and highlights the growing influence of Irish expertise in shaping the future of sustainable energy infrastructure across Europe.
