Fernando Nuño works on the advocacy and promotion of copper-based technologies for motors, transformers, and power cables in the Clean Energy Transition (CET) program. He enjoys developing new projects related to industrial motors, electric vehicle drivetrains, and electric batteries. One of Fernando’s favorite professional accomplishments includes raising millions in public funding for innovative projects in these sectors. Every year, Fernando hosts a popular electric motors event, the International Motor Workshop, which continues to connect him to industry stakeholders and promote copper’s solutions for energy-efficient technologies. He appreciates the opportunity to work in a diversified field where his work can make a direct difference to policy and copper’s many applications in the green transition.

The Pop in Your Job: “Knowing that I dedicate my time and efforts to building a better future for all is highly rewarding and motivating. Indeed, copper is ubiquitous in the energy transition: windmills, photovoltaic plants, high voltage transmission cables, power transformers, electric motors, heat pumps, electric vehicles, batteries, electrical installations in buildings… Copper is present in the four elements of the electricity system: generation, transmission and distribution, storage and demand. No chance to get bored! As a programme manager, I cover not only the technology angle of projects, but also the advocacy with European institutions, the marketing to reach broad audiences through webinars, press articles and communication campaigns, as well as the R&D and market uptake funding through EU programmes such as Horizon Europe and the LIFE programme. My work mates are either technical experts, policy makers, academics, copywriters, product managers, consultants, staff at associations, conference managers, market analysts and industry leaders. I’m thankful for such a diversified and reach environment.”

Based in Brussels, the European Copper Institute (ECI) is the leading advocate for the copper industry in Europe. Through a team of policy, industry, and scientific experts, ECI acts to support copper’s role in achieving the EU’s policy goals. Part of the International Copper Association (ICA), ECI promotes copper’s crucial role in the energy transition, electromobility, and the building or renovation of sustainable, energy-efficient buildings. Through robust methodologies based on business and scientific data, ECI ensures the copper industry's license to operate receives fair treatment under the European Green Deal, especially in the area of chemical management. In addition, ECI serves as the secretariat of the REACH Copper Consortium, which provides a coordinated answer to the EU requirements on chemical registration, evaluation, and authorization.