The University of Ulster has won a top energy efficiency award at the annual Sustainable Ireland Awards.

BBC broadcaster Noel Thompson presented Ulster's Sustainability Manager, Adrian Davis and Energy Officer, James Waide, with the much-coveted award, sponsored by ROL Testing Ltd and Socomec UPS, during a glittering ceremony held at the Ramada Hotel in Belfast.

The judges were highly impressed with the University's focus on making energy savings.

The award recognises the effective energy and carbon management which has been in place over the last 20 years at the University.

From 2006 to 2011, the university’s carbon emissions decreased by 17% and its energy consumption decreased by 15% resulting in considerable cost savings.

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Improvements were achieved despite increases in both the size of the estate and the number of students.

Energy reductions have been realised through a combination of proactive management and improvements to the estate including replacement of inefficient buildings and services and the incorporation of renewable technologies including wind and solar power.

After receiving the award, Adrian Davis said: "I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of the University of Ulster which recognises the good work carried out by staff to reduce the environmental impacts and costs associated with energy use.

"It is encouraging that the ongoing efforts to achieve the targets in the University's Carbon Management Plan are being commended."

The annual Sustainable Ireland Awards are organised by the Hillsborough-based publishers of Sustainable Ireland, 4Square Media, and is now widely regarded as the premier event in the Irish Environmental, Waste Management and Energy sectors, attracting entries, support and sponsorship from all the leading players across the industry.

(CD/GK)