Ben Kirley

Ben Kirley is a highly accomplished power and clean energy infrastructure consultant, with over a decade of experience leading complex technical projects across the UK, Europe, and Australia. As Network Innovation Lead at Ricardo, Ben specialises in Smart Grids and sector-leading initiatives. Ben has also delivered Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS) for power and industrial clients, delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance grid resilience, flexibility, and operational efficiency.

Ben has successfully managed pioneering initiatives in grid flexibility, energy trading, microgrid deployment, and active network management (ANM), working closely with utilities, government bodies, local energy communities, and international stakeholders. His leadership has driven the development and implementation of advanced digital tools, including Ricardo’s Maritime Electrification NET tool and EV ChargePoint location planning ChaRM platforms, supporting strategic electrification and megawatt-scale charging infrastructure respectively.

With a strong foundation in physics, operations management and systems delivery, Ben combines deep technical knowledge with strategic oversight, consistently delivering high-value outcomes. His collaborative approach, stakeholder engagement skills, and ability to manage multidisciplinary teams make him a trusted advisor in the transition to sustainable energy systems.