Energy Director recognised as Outstanding in Renewable Energy Sector
Director of Bryson Energy and Drumlin Wind Energy Co-op Voluntary Chairman, Nigel Brady has received the runner up award for his outstanding work in the renewable sector at the Action Renewables Energy Awards which took place in the Stormont Hotel.
Nigel has worked in the Energy industry for over 18 years and his commitment, passion, drive and focus have ensured that Northern Ireland citizens have had the opportunity to both get practical and impartial advice about renewable technologies and also the opportunity to invest in a local renewable energy scheme. Nigel certainly practices what he preaches and has invested in a range of renewable technologies over the years including a wood pellet stove, a small wind turbine, photovoltaics and has recently installed solar water panels on his current home.
As well as Director of Energy with Bryson Energy, part of the Bryson Charitable Group, Nigel has been Chairman of Drumlin, Northern Ireland’s first Wind Energy Cooperative since its formation in 2012 and has been instrumental in promoting the scheme locally and securing members to ensure that their investment contributes to local carbon dioxide (CO2 ) reduction and the wider issue of combating climate change.
Under Nigel’s Chairmanship, Drumlin has recently launched a second round of funding to offer people in Northern Ireland, Great Britain and Ireland a further opportunity to buy shares in the Drumlin Wind Energy Co-operative. The success of the first share offer, raising £2.7M has allowed Drumlin to build four turbines, two of which are now generating electricity and providing an ethical return for members. Drumlin now has the option to erect turbines on another two sites at Ballyclare, Co. Antrim and Newtownhamilton, Co. Armagh and have opened their second share offer until April 30th, 2014.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Michael Doran, Director of Action Renewables said: “The main aim of the awards is to reward those companies and individuals who have introduced renewable energy initiatives within their businesses and are making a real effort to lead by example while lessening their environmental impact. There are so many worthwhile renewable energy and sustainability initiatives being implemented throughout Northern Ireland and our awards play a key part in recognising these projects”.
The awards, supported by Tughans Solicitors are now in their sixth year and aimed to recognise companies who have demonstrated their commitment to the development and growth of the ‘green’ industry.
Andrew Ryan, Partner from Tughans Solicitors said: “Tughans is delighted to be supporting the Action Renewables Awards for the fourth year in a row. The entries this year reflect the diversity of renewable projects in Northern Ireland and the excellent work carried out by local businesses in continuing to grow the sector while bringing benefits to the local economy and environment”.
Drumlin Wind Energy Cooperative was itself awarded first place as Best Community Project, sponsored by Brites. Nigel, who said he was “delighted at the recognition of his work and in particular the achievements of Drumlin” paid tribute to his colleagues in both Bryson and Drumlin and added that “these awards were recognition of a team effort over many years”.
Nigel will now be automatically entered for an International Green Apple Environment Award. The Green Apple Awards have been running in the UK since 1994 and they are an accredited feeder scheme into the Brussels-led European Business Awards for the Environment.
