Swisspower Renewables AG Appoints André Cruz as New COO to Drive Expansion of European Clean Energy Portfolio

Swisspower Renewables AG has appointed André Cruz as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), entrusting him with the operational management and strategic development of the company’s expanding European portfolio, which includes wind, hydropower, and a growing number of photovoltaic assets.

The company currently operates facilities that generate over 700 GWh of renewable electricity annually, contributing significantly to Europe’s ongoing clean energy transition.

CEO Lars Hieke noted that Cruz brings comprehensive experience across the renewable energy value chain.
“With André Cruz, we are gaining a COO who knows the full spectrum of our business – from project development through construction and operations to power marketing,” Hieke said. He added that Cruz’s expertise in wind, solar, and storage systems supports the company’s strategy of combining profitability with efficient operations and growth from in-house project development.

Cruz joins Swisspower Renewables with extensive leadership experience in the renewable energy sector. He previously served as Windenergy COO at MET Group, overseeing wind power and battery storage projects across Europe. His earlier roles include Senior Manager Investments at Smartenergy and several management positions at Elektrizitätswerke des Kantons Zürich (EKZ), including Head of Solar Business and Asset Manager for Renewable Energies.

A mechanical engineer from ETH Zurich with a focus on energy sciences, Cruz also holds a Diploma of Advanced Studies in Accounting & Finance from HWZ Zurich—qualifications that strengthen his blend of technical, financial, and management expertise.

Commenting on his new role, Cruz said he looks forward to enhancing operational performance and supporting the company’s growth ambitions.
“Swisspower Renewables combines the long-term perspective of Swiss municipal utilities with a clear focus on operational depth and excellence,” he said. “I am excited to work with the team to optimise our wind and hydropower plants, advance repowering efforts, and implement our pipeline of photovoltaic and storage projects.”