Joan Fages was the very first President of the European Renewable Energies Federation (EREF) and, in many ways, a father figure to the federation itself. He was a committed entrepreneur for renewable energy, with a clear spirit, sound knowledge, and a lifelong dedication to advancing energy system change towards 100% renewables.

Joan was an industrial engineer by training, graduating from the Barcelona School of Industrial Engineering in 1966. He later obtained a master’s degree in business administration and management from ESADE. He built his career across the industrial and tourism sectors, while also teaching and sharing his expertise through participation in numerous conferences and symposia.

Active in the renewable energy sector since 1981 in Spain, he contributed to projects in Portugal and Cape Verde in the field of mini hydroelectric power plants, and in France in the field of wind farms. At the same time, he played an essential role in the political and regulatory development of renewables.

This included serving as President of EREF from its foundation in 1999 to 2004, and founding in 1987 both the Association of Renewable Energy Companies (APPA Renovables) and the European Small Hydropower Association (ESHA).

His legacy is part of EREF’s foundations, and his contribution to the renewable energy community will be remembered.