Success For The Highlands And Islands At The Scottish Green Energy Awards 2022

2nd December 2022

Photograph of Success For The Highlands And Islands At The Scottish Green Energy Awards 2022

Organised by Scottish Renewables, the annual awards celebrate the achievements of a wide range of organisations and individuals involved in the renewable energy sector.

The winner of the Best Community Project was Aros an Rubha. The mixed renewables community hub in Point, Isle of Lewis is powered by renewables and offers resilience during power outages. The team behind the hub, Urras Stòras An Rubha (USAR), is working towards the goal to become entirely off-grid. Among the mix of its renewable energy sources are solar panels, which power the hub and is believed to be the largest community solar array in the UK.

The Sustainable Development Award was won by Distell International - a low carbon project, which is a model of good practice for sustainable whisky production in Scotland. Funded and owned by AMP Clean Energy and developed, built and operated by Dallol Energy, the energy centre will result in the first Net Zero distillation process on Islay.

The Outstanding Contribution Award, which is sponsored by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), went to Patricia Hawthorn, consultant at Shepherd & Wedderburn and Chair of Scottish Renewables.

Audrey MacIver, director of energy transition and net zero at HIE presented Patricia with her prize. Audrey said: "Patricia is very deserving of this prestigious award. She is always at the forefront of innovation in the renewables sector, Patricia has helped successfully deliver many cutting-edge projects. These have had a particular emphasis on those in the marine environment, notably advising on all aspects of offshore wind consenting.

"In her capacity as Chair of Scottish Renewables, she led the organisation through a particularly challenging time. Her relentless focus on diversity in all its forms has created a lasting legacy through her leadership and personal impact.

“These awards are a major highlight in the energy calendar. Seeing the fabulous showing from our region tonight in what has been the most difficult couple of years is truly testament to the spirit of the Highlands and Islands. Congratulations to everyone."

Read more about the winners of other categories on Scottish Renewables' website at https://www.scottishrenewables.com/news/1196-renewable-energy-industry-celebrates-the-scottish-green-energy-awards

 

Related Businesses

 

Related Articles

31/10/2026 : Local Authority

Caithness at the Sharp End: Broadband, Buses and Public Services Under Pressure

From the loss of a direct bus link to Inverness to uncertainty over rural broadband, a difficult council budget and the future of community organisations, the past week has provided plenty for Caithness residents to think about.  But there have also been celebrations, local achievements and signs of community spirit.  

31/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

The North Sea's Changing Future: What Does It Mean for Jobs and Investment in Caithness?

The future of the North Sea energy industry is once again attracting considerable attention.  With the UK Government facing difficult decisions about oil and gas production, energy security, investment and the transition towards renewable energy.  

23/10/2026 : Marine Services

HIE funding supports new strategy role at Wick Harbour

Wick Harbour Authority (WHA) is to appoint a new strategy manager after securing up to £52,500 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help fund the post.   The post holder will help WHA deliver its emerging harbour masterplan and outline business case, strengthen capacity and develop new business opportunities.  

20/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

 
HIE welcomes £350m cable factory opening

The official opening of the UK’s first HVDC subsea cable factory, located at the Port of Nigg in Easter Ross, has been welcomed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).   The facility represents an investment of £350m.  

17/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

When Community Ownership Isn't Enough: The Uncertain Future of GlenWyvis Distillery

The Highland distillery was built with the support of thousands of people who wanted to create something lasting for their community.  Its entry into administration exposes the financial risks facing ambitious local ventures, even when the original idea has widespread public support.  

8/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

Innovation and AI: New opportunities for businesses across the Highlands and Islands

Innovation has always been a defining characteristic of businesses and social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands.   Whether developing new products, finding ways to overcome the challenges of distance and geography, improving services, or identifying new markets, organisations across the region have a long track record of adapting and evolving.  

30/9/2026 : Local Authority

Scottish Cities Alliance Investment Conference to showcase Highland opportunities

Inverness will welcome government representatives, investors, business leaders and economic development partners later this week as it hosts the Scottish Cities Alliance Autumn Investor Event.  A two-day programme designed to showcase investment opportunities across Inverness, the Highlands and Scotland's city regions.  

29/9/2026 : Local Authority

Are We Trying to Save Britain’s Towns Without Planning Their Future?

Walk through almost any British town centre and you can see the evidence of change.   There are empty shops where there were once businesses.  

26/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

September is Scottish Start-Up Month – could your business idea become a reality?

September has become a month when Scotland's aspiring entrepreneurs are being encouraged to take a closer look at an idea that may have been sitting in the back of their minds for some time.   Scottish Start-Up Month, led by Business Gateway, has returned for 2026 with a simple message: if you have an idea for a business, this could be the month to take the first step.  

22/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities

Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities Scotland and Ireland are developing closer links between their Gaelic-speaking communities, with housing, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, tourism and the marine economy among the areas being explored for future cooperation.   The initiative was highlighted during a visit to Skye by Ireland's President Catherine Connolly, who met representatives of Highland organisations including Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Highland Council.