The Department of Economic Development has announced that entries are now being invited for this year’s Energy Champion Awards. The awards acknowledge the achievements of the Island’s businesses and public sector organisations in reducing their energy consumption and improving their efficiency. As in previous years, the Award categories are in three categories for Business and Government: • most innovative energy saving project • Energy Champion best practice •l argest saving for a project The Energy Champion Awards Ceremony form part of the opening of the 2011 Energy Expo and Award winners will each receive a Framed Certificate and Award from Economic Development Minister, Allan Bell MHK. The single biggest saving in the 2010 awards was for a project at the National Sports Centre to fit motor controllers on the ventilation motors and pool pumps, which has shown savings of ?43,000 annually, covering the costs of its installation within 12 months. Manx Telecom made savings by installing special software to power down staff computers when inactive, which saved the firm over ?27,000 in its first year. Minister for Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK commented: “I am keen to see the steps that organisations in both the public and private sector are taking to reduce their energy usage. In light of the recent increases in fuel prices, it is especially important for organisations to identify ways of reducing their energy bills as well as reducing their carbon footprint. Mrs Clare Christian, Department Member with responsibility for Energy added: “I am delighted to hear of the significant savings that have been achieved by local businesses, with previous award winners having reduced their energy consumption by up to 40%. It is important for all local businesses to appreciate that these savings can be replicated in their own business and I would encourage them to contact the Department to book a place on the next Energy Champion training course.” Peter Longworth, from the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture commented: “There are many examples of good practice happening, and the awards are a way to make sure the good work can be recognised. The Energy Champion Awards are a way to give public recognition to the great work that Champions, from a range of organisations, have achieved.” ENDS