Today is the final day to submit entries for the 2015 Solar Power Portal Awards.

Returning for its third year, the Solar Power Portal Awards will take place on 13 October, the first evening of the sixth Solar Energy UK exhibition in Birmingham.

Following feedback from last year we've drastically streamlined the application process and allowed other parties to nominate companies who they believe are deserving of an award. We've also tinkered with the categories to better reflect the maturing UK solar market in 2015.

Focusing on all areas of the solar industry, the awards recognise and commend good practice, professionalism, quality, safety and innovation, with the aim of being a marker of the brightest and best that UK solar has to offer.

This year's Solar Power Portal Awards feature 11 categories.

Best use of solar in a CSR project

This award recognises one company’s commitment to the climate and the environment. Open to all businesses who have installed solar as part of a CSR project. Judges will be looking for a holistic approach to solar generation that has both business benefits as well as making a statement about the push towards a low carbon economy.

Apprentice of the year

Awarded to an apprentice who has gone above and beyond to learn about the solar industry during an apprenticeship and make a sizeable contribution to their employer. Open to all solar stakeholders.

Best industry innovation

The technological or business innovation that has offered a unique advantage for the solar industry. It could still be in the lab or working its way through development or rolled out.

Rooftop < 250Kw

The best rooftop project under 250Kw in size. Judges will look at all aspects of the project’s development from planning and client engagement, to design, construction and financing. The benefits delivered to the client and the impact on their business during build out and after connection will be factored in. Open to residential and commercial installs.

Commercial-scale rooftop > 250kW

The best commercial rooftop project over 250kW in size. Judges will look at all aspects of the project’s development from planning and client engagement, to design, construction and financing. The benefits delivered to the client and the impact on their business during build out and after connection will be factored in.

Ground-mount

The best ground mounted project. Judges will look at all aspects of the project’s development from planning and community engagement, to site selection and construction and financing. They’re looking for the whole package.

Community benefit

The community benefit award will look at the biggest impact on a community be from a community group itself or the efforts of a private sector player to spread the rewards of their work to the wider locality.

Solar finance innovation

Open to project and corporate financing or the provision of credit to end users. Judges will be looking for smart new methods of proving cash that ultimately boosts UK solar deployment.

Next Energy News’ integrated renewables system

Best low carbon energy project. Entries should incorporate multiple low carbon technologies including decentralised generation, energy efficiency measures, storage, EV infrastructure etc. Ideally entries will combine multiple technologies. Residential and SME installs welcome.

Installation company of the year

The best solar installer of the year. Open to residential installers and large-scale developers. Judges will be looking at a portfolio of each entrant's work. Impressive technical execution and business knowledge will be considered.

NEW: PV Tech Best international use of solar

This award will be given to the project – either grid connected or not – that has done the most to benefit the local community in which it has been located. Whether you’re sending solar lanterns to 'last mile' locations or building a grid-connected project internationally, the judges for this award will be looking for training and long-term employment opportunities in addition to significant technical expertise.

Solar Power Portal outstanding achievement award

An individual deserving recognition for their outstanding service and contribution to the solar industry during 2015. *This category is not open for nominations.

The awards are for projects and work carried out in the UK only, however the project or work may have been carried out by a UK or international company.

Companies can submit entries for more than one award, but an individual project can only be entered for one category.

Why enter?

Focusing on all areas of the solar industry, the purpose of the awards is to recognise and celebrate good practice, professionalism, quality, safety and innovation, with the aim of being a marker of the brightest and best that UK solar has to offer.

The Solar Power Portal Awards represent an opportunity for industry recognition, a catalyst for new business opportunities and higher visibility within the industry. The evening also offers a fantastic setting in which to network with fellow guests and peers from the industry and beyond. The ceremony is open to all – tickets include a drinks reception, three-course meal, live entertainment and a special guest speaker ensuring the evening is a glittering affair.

All shortlisted entries each receive two tickets. Taking the time to enter will give you and your company a wide range of benefits that will include:

  • Entries seen by industry-leading, expert judges

  • Shortlisted entries will be showcased on Solar Power Portal and in the September issue of Solar Business Focus UK

  • Winners will be featured on Solar Power Portal and Solar Business Focus UK (November issue)

  • Each winner will receive their award at the Solar Power Portal Gala Dinner Awards Ceremony

  • Recognition as a leader and innovator in the solar industry

  • Multi-channel promotion through Solar Power Portal, Solar Business Focus UK, related e-shots and social media platforms

  • Increased brand awareness for all entrants

  • Motivation and reward – increased morale for your team

  • Endorsement of your company’s skills and expertise attracting new customers, partners and investment

Full details of the awards can be found at: https://awards.solarpowerportal.co.uk