Mr. Dean Cooper

Dean Cooper is currently the Global Energy Lead at WWF, with a focus on “Faster, Greener, Fairer” energy transformation.  He was previously the Global Energy Sector Co-ordinator with SNV, the Netherlands Development Organisation.  Prior to SNV, Dean spent 7 years as Energy Finance Programme Manager with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Paris, focusing on how to scale-up investment for building sustainable clean energy technology markets worldwide. Before joining UNEP, Dean completed an MBA (distinction) and established the business Parallax-Sustainable Development Solutions in South Africa and the UK, managing global clean energy initiatives, including sustainable energy sources for remote communities in Africa.  He has worked closely with the public and private sectors, aiming to achieve practical results for clean energy access, particularly in developing countries.  Before Parallax, his experience included the Best Practice Programme of the national UK Energy Agency, followed by 4 years as Head of Co-operation with Developing Countries for a support unit to the European Commission’s Energy Directorate.  He was then seconded to the Department of Minerals and Energy in South Africa to build EU/SA energy development co-operation, and transferred to Botswana to establish closer links with the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).