By Isabella Kaminski

The annual scheme, run by RenewableUK and the Crown Estate, is open to all renewable energy technologies. The first winner will be announced at the RenewableUK Health and Safety Conference on 1 February 2012.

According to RenewableUK, it is the first health and safety scheme for the renewable industry in the UK. Its main purpose is to recognise the development, implementation and sharing of best practice in health and safety across the industry.

Maria McCaffery MBE, Chief Executive of RenewableUK, says: “The awards scheme is a tangible example of the paramount importance we attach to health and safety within the renewable energy sector. We already have an outstanding record on this issue, thanks to the dedication of thousands of experts who ensure that risk assessments are carried out with an unparalleled degree of professionalism. These awards will serve to encourage best practice, and to ensure that this vital area of expertise is recognised in an appropriate manner”.

Rob Hastings, director of the Crown Estate’s marine portfolio, says “Health and safety is crucial to the delivery of renewables programmes, and it’s essential that good practice gets shared industry-wide so that high standards are set. We view our role as helping and encouraging industry to share best practice, demonstrating our commitment to the safe and successful development of renewable energy in the UK”.

Full details of the scheme, including the application process and assessment criteria, will be published shortly.