The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has unveiled its annual SEAI Energy Awards and is calling on climate action champions to showcase their achievements.

Excellence in sustainable energy

Now in their 17^th year, the SEAI Energy Awards recognise and reward excellence in sustainable energy in business, community, research, buildings, renewables and public sector. 

The Climate Action Plan has actions and targets across every sector in society. Every organisation will need to step up and make changes to how they manage their emissions.  

SEAI is calling for entries from those organisations or individuals who push the boundaries in energy efficiency best practice, use innovative renewable energy solutions, or increase energy awareness and inspire energy action among colleagues or peers.

Entries can include any combination of electricity, heat or transport initiatives. There are eight categories to choose from including: Large Business; Small and Medium Business; Public Sector; Energy Community; Buildings; Renewable Energy; Energy Manager or Team; and Research and Innovation, the winner of which receives a bursary of up to €10,000.

'Critical challenge of our time'

Fergus Sharkey, head of business and public sector in SEAI, said: “Climate action continues to be a critical challenge of our time, and SEAI wants to recognise those that are leading the charge; reshaping our communities and businesses for a low carbon future.

"We want to give recognition of excellence to those deserving individuals and organisations who are taking bold steps in the right direction and inspiring others through their action.

"If you believe this is your community, your organisation, or yourself then I strongly encourage you to enter the SEAI Energy Awards 2020 so we can celebrate your achievements.” 

Last year, the top prize for Energy Team of the Year went to NUI Galway for its ambitions to be one of the greenest universities in the world.

As part of its strategy, it created a Green Campus Charter, encouraging and providing tools to students and staff on how they can reduce energy use on campus and in their homes. Already at 36% energy reduction, NUIG continue to work towards their ambitious target of a 40% energy reduction by 2020.

Other winners of the 2019 Awards included; Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (Public Sector); Flahavan's, Waterford (SME); Astellas Ireland, Kerry (Buildings); Kilanerin-Ballyfad Community Development Association, Wexford (Sustainable Energy Community); Ashleigh Environmental Limited, Waterford (Research and Innovation); and Tipperary Cooperative Creamery Ltd. (Large Business).

Closing date for entries is Friday, June 19, 2020. The winners will be announced later in October. For further information on the awards and details on how to enter the 2020 SEAI Energy Awards visit www.seai.ie/energyawards