Search is on for 'sustainable energy winners' in 2018
The search has begun for Ireland’s energy leaders who are demonstrating innovative approaches to clean energy with high replication potential, as the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) launches the SEAI Energy Awards 2018.
The SEAI Energy Awards recognise and reward excellence in all aspects of energy efficiency and renewable energy. Businesses, public bodies and communities who are working towards a cleaner energy future for Ireland are encouraged to apply.
Entries can include any combination of electricity, heat or transport initiatives. There are nine categories to choose from, including: large business; small business; public sector; community; buildings; energy manager or team; and research, which has a bursary of up to €10,000.
This year the awards have two category sponsors: Gas Networks Ireland (Large Business – Energy Management) and Enprova (Large Business – Energy Project).
The closing date for entries is Friday, June 8, 2018. The winners will be announced at a gala event on October 25.
Announcing the launch of the awards, Majella Kelleher, head of business and public sector at SEAI, said: “There is truly excellent actions being taken in sustainable energy across our entire economy.
“The SEAI Energy Awards are a great opportunity for businesses, public bodies and communities to get recognition for outstanding energy achievements.
Energy efficiency makes financial, as well as environmental, sense. There is growing momentum in Ireland’s progress towards a low carbon society.
Last year, entrants to the awards demonstrated savings of €27 million through innovative sustainable energy projects.
The top prize for Energy Team of the Year went to Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), which implemented an organisation-wide approach to saving energy, with staff and students working together.
The institute surpassed its 33% energy efficiency target and is saving €300,000 per year on energy bills, according to SEAI.
Speaking on the impact of their Energy Team Award win, Elaine Greenan – estates manager from WIT – said: “Receiving the award provided us with media exposure.
“It has enhanced our brand, made us more competitive and students are attracted to our green campus.”
The National Ambulance Service won the Public Sector Award for reducing fuel use and emissions from a combination of driver behaviour change, an eco-anti-idle system and built-in solar chargers.
For those interested in learning more about the awards, including how to enter, further details are available on the SEAI website.
