Deadline for applications 23 October 2012
Renewable energy programmes and enterprises that will help vulnerable small island developing states transition to sustainable sources of power are today invited to enter for a new Awards category launched by Ashden and supported the World Bank's Energy Sector Management Assistance Program and SIDS DOCK.
Entry for the awards is free, with two winners to receive prize money of £20,000 each, to be awarded at a prestigious ceremony in London in June 2013. Two runners-up will receive up to £5,000 each.
Says Ashden Founder Director Sarah Butler-Sloss: “Small island states across the world are particularly vulnerable to sea level rises triggered by climate change as well as to oil price shocks. Yet ironically these countries often have abundant renewable energy sources available to them, including wind, sun, water and geothermal energy.
“Through these new Awards, which we are excited to launch today in collaboration with the World Bank and SIDS DOCK, we aim to uncover the very best examples of renewable energy or energy efficiency programmes and enterprises that are helping these vulnerable islands maximise the potential of their renewable energy resources and end their dependence on fossil fuels.”
"Small island states have unique energy challenges. Renewable energy solutions, while enabling access, also mitigate vulnerability to high fuel costs and associated price volatility,” said Vijay Iyer, Director of the World Bank’s Sustainable Energy Department. “In partnership with Ashden, we are excited to promote and recognise innovative solutions by sustainable energy pioneers."
As well as prize money, winners of the awards will also receive a package of benefits and tailored support designed to help them scale up their work; a platform to promote their work through events and media coverage; media materials; and opportunities for peer-to-peer learning through the Ashden Alumni Network.
