The Energy Industries Council (EIC) has appointed Claas Helmke as its first regional director for Continental Europe, marking the start of the world-leading energy trade association’s on-the-ground presence in the region.
The expansion is a key step in EIC’s global growth strategy.
Previously managed from its London headquarters, EIC’s Continental Europe activities and members will now be managed by Helmke, based in Berlin, providing direct access for energy firms across the region. As many as 50% of EIC’s 950 global members have offices in Continental Europe.
With Helmke - a renewable energy policy veteran and founder of Berlin-based climate tech investor newtrail.capital - leading the Continental Europe hub, Sara Castiglioni joins as business development manager for Southern Europe, operating from Milan.
Sara Castiglioni
“Establishing a Continental Europe hub is a natural next step,” said EIC CEO Stuart Broadley. “As we celebrate 30 years since opening our first international office in Houston, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, and Rio, we’re proud to add Continental Europe to this network.”
“Europe’s energy transition is accelerating, and the supply chain needs partners who understand both policy, project opportunities, and practical execution,” Helmke said. “My focus is to connect EIC’s expertise with local challenges, whether that’s scaling hydrogen projects or navigating EU funding mechanisms.”
Castiglioni said: “I’m delighted to join the EIC and look forward to serving existing and new members across Europe, supporting them in doing what the EIC does best – exporting their products and services, diversifying their activities, and growing their overall business.”
Claas Helmke
About Claas Helmke
Claas Helmke is a leader in renewable energy and climate policy. With a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from Newcastle University and 25 years in the field, he combines technical expertise with strategic vision.
He founded newtrail.capital in Berlin, linking impact investors to climate tech startups, and co-created GermanZero e.V., a nonprofit behind Germany’s legislative plan to hit climate neutrality by 2035.
Helmke advised the European Commission on clean energy innovation through its Horizon programs. His focus areas include energy systems, climate finance, and policy design.
He earned the Global Solar Leaders Award for his role in shaping the solar industry. When not tackling the climate crisis, he plays electric guitar and sings.
Sara Castiglioni
Sara Castiglioni has nearly 20 years of experience in the energy sector, primarily within Oil and Gas. Her career has focused on sales, with roles in Area Sales, Business Development, and Sales Management across small, medium, and large companies, mainly in the valve sector, while also collaborating closely with marketing teams.