Up and coming renewable energy talent celebrated at young professional awards
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A new generation of green energy talent has been celebrated at the virtual Young Professionals Green Energy Awards.
The event, which would normally take place as a black-tie event in Glasgow, was hosted online for a second year with more than 300 guests tuning in to see the announcement of the eight winners who have all made an innovative contribution to Scotland’s renewable energy industry.
They include offshore wind farm engineer Eishar Bassan of Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, for her role in changing workplace culture for the better. Her work has seen a diversity and inclusion strategy implemented across the company’s worldwide operations making her a worthy winner of the culture change category.
Anthony Kinsella of ScottishPower Renewables was announced as the innovator award winner for his pioneering work on virtual synchronous machines, which could change the way the electricity system is managed in the future.
Recognition also went to Hannah Grainger of BAM Nuttall, who received the engineer award for improving the safety, quality and environmental impact of projects, and for her work addressing the shortfall of female engineers in the renewable energy sector.
The academic award went to Fraser Stewart. Originally from Dundee and now a PhD Student at the University of Strathclyde, he was honoured for his work with Glasgow Community Energy – the city’s first ever community energy project – which will benefit some its most deprived communities.
The winners were selected by a panel of eight judges from more than 100 nominees.
Claire Mack, chief executive of Scottish Renewables, the industry body which organises the awards, said: “This year’s Young Professionals Green Energy Awards once again showcase the incredible talent pool we have here in Scotland.
“It is truly inspiring to see the drive and dedication of those who are just starting their careers in renewable energy.
“COP26 coming to Glasgow in November will see the world come together to map out what we need to do next to fight climate change and it’s reassuring to know that the innovation and skills of the people taking part tonight will play a key role in delivering those ambitions.
“Congratulations to all the winners, you should be extremely proud of your achievements.”
Young Professionals Green Energy Awards 2021 full list of winners:
Academic Award (Sponsored by ETP): Fraser Stewart, University of Strathclyde
Analyst Award: Jack Evans, TTI Marine Renewables Ltd
Culture Change Award: Eishar Bassan, Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy
Engineer Award (sponsored by ESB): Hannah Grainger, BAM Nuttall
Innovator Award (sponsored by OPITO): Anthony Kinsella, ScottishPower Renewables
Personal Improvement Award (sponsored by Skills Development Scotland): Ethan Lekalake, Renewable Parts
Professional Service Award: Olivia Smith, Burness Paull LLP
Project Development Award: Hannah Collings, Xodus Group Ltd
The winners of the 2021 Young Professionals Green Energy Awards will go on to compete for the Young and Inspiring Award at the Scottish Green Energy Awards, which will be held later this year.
