The Irish Times has published an advertising feature on the Business Energy Achievement Awards 2026, capturing the gala evening at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, where Ireland’s energy practitioners gathered to mark the programme’s sixth year. The coverage shows how far the awards have grown as a national marker of measurable energy performance.

Leading the report is Whitehaven in Santry, a scheme of 255 ultra-low energy homes developed by Tuath Housing, Cairn and MosArt. Opened in November 2025, it includes 161 cost-rental homes that attracted 7,200 applications. The development took the Overall Energy Achievement Award, with the judges describing it as a collaborative project that proves ambitious energy performance can be delivered through innovative design and strong partnership. Tuath Housing’s sustainability manager, Jennifer Whitty, said the focus must be on buildings that pair strong energy performance with real results for residents.

The programme itself reflects the sector’s momentum. The awards drew 102 entries and presented 21 trophies. James O’Regan of Gilead Sciences Ireland received the Energy Leader 2026 award, with the citation noting that he turned energy management at the Cork manufacturing site into a strategic programme supporting growth, resilience and long-term competitiveness. Other winners included Lidl Ireland, Kepak, Irving Oil, Activ8 Solar Energies, Cold Move Logistics Solutions, EZO, Enel X, GridBeyond, Pfizer Newbridge, Coghlan’s Bakery, Circet Ireland, Hodson Bay Group, Uisce Éireann and Evergreen Care.

Winners used the evening to reflect on what the recognition means. Irving Oil welcomed recognition of its efficiency work at the Whitegate refinery, while Lidl Ireland valued being measured against sector leaders in sustainability and renewables. Kepak described its water usage award as a boost for employees on site, and Activ8 Solar Energies pointed to its partnership with Gyproc Ireland, Saint-Gobain and SSE Airtricity as a win for everyone involved.

Hosted by Colm O’Regan, the gala also highlighted the backing behind the programme. Gold sponsor Shabra Group’s chief executive, Jude Torley, said industry progress demands accountability and measurable results, while organiser BusinessRiver thanked supporter Amárach Research for its investment in the awards. Judging coordinator Brian Norton noted that the programme brings recognition to teams who move their organisations from persuasion to action.

For organisations planning ahead, the results offer a clear picture of what leading energy performance looks like across Irish industry as the 2027 awards cycle approaches.

Read the full Irish Times feature, view the full list of winners at the official awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for past highlights and full category details from Ireland’s energy community.