Five Award Shortlists Recognise Excellence in Sustainability and Innovation
Delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for 5 different awards in 2 awards programmes!
National Sustainability Awards
In the National Sustainability Awards, Tom Maider has been shortlisted for Rising Star, and we’ve also been shortlisted for an Energy Innovation Award and Innovation Award for our work enabling a new green energy initiative in Northern Ireland to convert MDF dust into power.
The project will turn over 10,000 tonnes of MDF dust into clean energy every year, generating 1MW of electricity and saving 1,500 tonnes of carbon annually.
👉We were commissioned by Invest Northern Ireland to conduct a feasibility assessment of the project, evaluating the client’s application for the Shared-Island Sustainability Capital Grant (SISCG).
👉We validated the technical concept and sizing, and quantified the energy, carbon and financial case for converting MDF dust into useful heat and power via a biomass CHP-ORC system.
👉We then set out the key delivery actions and consenting considerations to de-risk implementation as the project moves into construction.
You can read more here: Facilitating Funding For a Ground-breaking New Green Energy Initiative in Northern Ireland Converting MDF Dust Into Power! – Synergie Environ
Scottish Renewables Young Professionals Green Energy Awards
We’re also thrilled to share that we’ve been shortlisted twice in the Scottish Renewables Young Professionals Green Energy Awards 2026
Tom Maider has been shortlisted for the Academic Award
Since joining the team, Thomas has demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical capability. Within just five months, he led the Red Bay Boats energy assessment, managing project scope, client engagement, metering strategy and technical analysis to deliver a successful outcome within budget and programme constraints.
Tom also led a solvent-to-biogas feasibility study, applying his academic expertise to investigate the conversion of pharmaceutical waste into renewable fuel. The project showcased innovative approaches to circular resource use and was subsequently shortlisted in the EfW category at the Excellence in Recycling and Waste Management Awards 2026.
Aaron Hannah has been shortlisted for the Engineer Award
Aaron led the technical and economic feasibility study for a 1 MW biomass CHP-ORC system, designed to convert more than 10,000 tonnes of MDF dust annually into energy which you can read about in the article link above. His work included modelling 12 months of half-hourly demand data, assessing fuel supply and grid connection requirements, and developing a comprehensive economic case. The study directly enabled a £9 million investment, including a £2.4 million Shared Island grant, and will deliver the first system of its kind on the island of Ireland.
A huge congratulations to Thomas, Aaron, and all of the finalists. We’re incredibly proud to see their hard work, innovation and commitment being recognised.
