Projects in Ireland which demonstrated the best examples of creating a sustainable energy future have been celebrated at this year's SEAI Energy Awards.

The online ceremony from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), saw University College Cork/Tyndall National Institute take home the coveted Energy in Buildings award.

The University College Cork/Tyndall National Institute upgraded a protected structure constructed in 1903 to a high energy performance building. An example of an early industrial building in Cork, a full Energy Efficient Design process started at concept design stage. The goal was to optimise the building capacity whilst transforming the dark spaces into light filled environments and to promote core values of wellness, sustainability and encouraging scientific interaction. Smart building technology was a key component of the design and smart sensors were used in the lighting along with demand control on heat, light, power, and ventilation. The building achieved an A rating without the use of renewables and now energy use can be monitored in real time.

The Small and Medium Business - Exemplary Energy Performance award went to KORE Insulation. Over the past five years, KORE has implemented major reform in reducing their energy demand and carbon emissions. KORE Insulation participates in many retrofit schemes across the country and have also implemented a range of energy saving measures in their own factory. KORE is focused on reducing their carbon emissions and has installed a solar PV renewable energy system, amongst other upgrades. KORE has set a goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030.

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These winning companies were among 26 finalists shortlisted for the 2021 SEAI Energy Awards with projects delivering combined energy savings of €41.5 million. A total of ten awards were presented to individuals, businesses, communities, and public sector organisations in recognition of their commitment and dedication to sustainable energy and climate action.

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD, said: "I congratulate the participants in this year's SEAI Energy Awards who are setting an example for us all, with real life solutions for a cleaner more sustainable energy future. Right across the country we are seeing a growing commitment to sustainability, from individuals, communities, businesses and public bodies. The Climate Action plan, which will be published shortly, will set out how we can scale up our efforts across all sectors, so that we can face the climate challenge together."

Congratulating the finalists and winners, William Walsh, CEO of SEAI, added: "The SEAI Energy Awards continue to set the benchmark in energy best practice as exciting and innovative sustainable energy solutions and practices emerge. I congratulate this year's winners whose commitment and dedication are hugely inspiring. I encourage them to share their journeys and expertise so their efforts can be replicated as now more than ever, it is essential that we accelerate the deployment of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies and increase sustainable energy practices across all sectors."

A full list of the winners at the 2021 SEAI Energy Awards are available here.