ALISTAIR Phillips-Davies, chief executive of SSE, has been appointed vice-president of Eurelectric, the body which represents the electricity industry across the European Union.

The energy boss, who takes up the position this month, will provide advice to the body to help it contribute to the development and competitiveness of the sector.

Mr Phillips-Davies, who succeeded Ian Marchant as chief executive of SSE in 2013, will support new Eurelectric president Antonia Mexia, a former Portuguese energy minister and boss of EDP, and work alongside fellow vice-president Jean-Bernard Levy, chairman of EDF.

The vice-presidential term is two years, which Mr Phillips-Davies will combine with his duties at SSE.

He said: "I am delighted to be taking on this important at critical time for the electricity industry across Europe. With the start of a new Commission, the publication of the Energy Union, the Climate Change Conference in Paris and the forthcoming EU referendum in the UK, it's an important time to engage in the debates about how we can deliver a market that provides secure and low-carbon electricity supplies and meets the expectations of our customers.

"Progressive integration of the GB energy market with other countries in Europe will benefit UK customers and I look forward to working closely with president Mexia and the team at Eurelectric to deliver a cost efficient, reliable supply through an integrated market."

Eurelectric has more than 30 members in the electricity industry in 32 countries, as well as affiliations in several other continents.

Mr Mexia said: "Europe's energy system of tomorrow is dependent on the commitment of our industry CEOs and the valuable experience and vision they bring to our sector. I am therefore honoured to work alongside such distinguished industry leaders."