Saving energy remains high on Irish business agendas

Thirty Irish companies have been shortlisted for energy saving projects and initiatives in the 2012 Sustainable Energy Awards. The Awards, presented by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and sponsored by Electric Ireland, provide an opportunity for organisations, regardless of size or sector, to gain public recognition for their achievements in reducing energy use and CO₂ emissions.

The winners will be announced from the 30 shortlisted entries at a gala event in Dublin on 22^nd November 2012. Amongst the shortlisted Public Sector, Industry and Transport organisations who are leading the way in sustainable energy are the Irish Naval Service, Dublin Fire Brigade, Diageo, Tesco, Dawn Meats, Matthews Coaches and Veoila Transport. All have successfully introduced sustainable energy initiatives which have seen them benefit from substantial energy and cost savings.

Dawn Meats whose 5-step Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Programme has led to a reduction in energy consumption at all of Dawn Meats sites with some major sites showing savings of 50% – 80% in thermal energy use. Across the Group, Dawn Meats now use 30% less energy than the sector average.

A ‘Green Plan’ initiative implemented by Dublin Fire Brigade at Kilbarrack Fire Station, focused on decreasing energy spend and decarbonising as much as possible. The initiative achieved a 90% reduction in water consumption and more than 80% reduction in energy consumption.

Each of theentries submitted to the Sustainable Energy Awards were evaluated on a number of criteria including the vision and objectives behind the project or initiative, the drivers and business case, the innovation and approach, the successful implementation, and the demonstrated energy savings, reduced CO₂ emissions and replication potential.

Other notable entrants include Stewarts Care Limited in partnership with Dalkia Ltd and the EPS Group, both nominated in two categories (Energy Efficiency Award for Major Users; and Outstanding Leadership in Energy Management Award).

For more information on the finalist projects in the 2012 Sustainable Energy Awards visit www.seai.ie/EnergyAwards