University College Cork research fellow Paul Deane has been named Irish Wind Industry Champion of Renewables at the annual Irish Wind Awards.
The award recognises the outstanding contribution made by an individual who goes above and beyond to push the boundaries in raising awareness, inspiring others, demonstrating long-term leadership and ambition in the Irish wind industry.
Deane is also a senior researcher in clean energy futures with Science Foundation Ireland’s MaREI Centre in University College Cork.
He said: “I’m so delighted to accept this award for my colleagues in MaREI. It is so important now to have independent voices in research.
“And to look to Ireland to play to our strengths to reduce our emissions it’s not just about climate issues anymore, it’s about social issues and as we have seen beyond our borders it’s now about very relevant security issues.”
Deane has been involved in the energy industry for approximately 15 years in both commercial and academic research.
The research seeks to further understanding of the transition to low carbon energy systems from a technical, societal and an economic perspective.
Wind Energy Ireland chief executive Noel Cunniffe said: “I am proud to be part of an industry that is doing so much to tackle climate change.
“The quality of nominees and award-winners shows the wealth of talent we have in this space, a growing, passionate, committed and growing network of people determined to ensure that wind energy plays its role in leading the fight against climate change.
“These awards provide a welcome opportunity to highlight the great work being done in the wind and renewable energy industry in Ireland.
“It shines a light on the innovation and leadership across all areas of wind farm development.”
The Overall Winner Award went to Energia’s Meenadreen wind farm in County Donegal.
The Sustainable Development Award went to the Nature+Energy Project, which aims to maximise the benefits of biodiversity near onshore wind farms.
The Person of the Yead Award went to former Wind Energy Ireland CEO David Connolly.
The Young Person of the Year award went to Energia’s Cian Brogan.