Top Tips for completing a prize-winning entry form

• Read the category description and make sure you are entering the right category for your organisation.
• Answer all the questions methodically, including key milestones and achievements.
• Keep your answers short and precise. The judges are not expecting lengthy answers. There is a strict policy of a maximum of 8 pages per entry form.
• There is strong competition within each category. Make sure your entry appeals to the judges by including demonstrable energy saving results.
• Highlight the impact your actions have had on your stakeholders.
• Be sure to highlight your creativity and innovation.
• The judges are especially interested in projects that can be replicated by other organisations. Include information on how this has, or may, happen.
• Don't rush your application. Take time to think through your answers and speak to your colleagues about your entry.

What makes up a winning entry?

• Energy Savings - SEAI only reward projects that have been successfully operating for at least six months and have demonstrated significant energy savings. A robust energy monitoring and reporting system has to be in place to record the energy savings.
• Clear Business Case - There must be a clear understanding for why the project was implemented and the expected energy savings identified.
• Project Success - The project must have been carried out in an efficient and effective manner, with buy-in and support from the wider organisation. There should be demonstrable efforts to ensure the success of the project and that it delivered projected savings.
• Innovative & Replicable - Although many award-winners use established technologies, there must be innovative aspects to the scheme as a whole. These could include novel approaches by ensuring organisational buy-in, training and skills development, marketing, and/or technical developments. SEAI also want to showcase schemes that have significant potential to be followed by others and that will encourage the widespread uptake of energy efficiency.

For details of previous winners click here.