THE Environmental Research Institute in Thurso has been recognised for its contribution to the renewables industry.
The organisation won the Contribution to Skills and Training accolade at the 2011 Scottish Renewables Green Energy Awards.
The ceremony, which took place in Edinburgh and celebrated successes and achievements in the renewable energy sector, was organised by Scottish Renewables.
ERI was chosen because the judging panel felt the organisation had made the greatest contribution to the development of today’s and tomorrow’s workforce.
Opened in 2000, the ERI is part of North Highland College UHI, a partner in the new University of the Highlands and Islands. As well as being a centre for collaborative environmental research which engages public and private-sector partners from around world, it also offers internships, master’s degrees and PhDs.
ERI director Professor Stuart Gibb said: "We are all very proud of this achievement. The award is a tribute to our fantastic team and the support of our colleagues and funders.
"Being part of Scotland’s newest university and being situated on the shores of the Pentland Firth, it is natural that we should address education and training needs for the Scottish renewables industry.
"We aim to equip our students with the knowledge and skills they need to make a real contribution to the sector."
