The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy (DSCE) is seeking to reward best practices and leading initiatives in the areas of energy efficiency, alternative energy, sustainability and environmental protection.

A team from the council yesterday held a media briefing at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Hotel and Spa to promote the $1 million Emirates Energy Award (EEA) across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region,  reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

The briefing was held on the sidelines of the MEOS conference and exhibition.

"The executive committee of the EEA decided to conduct the road show following an overwhelming response to our call for applications for the awards, as well as queries seeking more details from the Mena region," said DSCE director of environment and safety Nasser Al Shaiba.

Applications are now open for any individuals, teams and organisations in the Middle East and Africa.

Eligible projects should meet several conditions, including completion by December 2007, and being in operation for a period of at least one year.

The award recognises achievements in six categories: gold and silver awards for energy conservation in the private and public sectors; gold and silver awards for large-scale energy projects; gold and silver awards for small-energy projects and gold and silver awards for education and research, in addition to a special award for excellence as well as an award for young innovators in energy.

The executive committee of EEA has decided to extend the date for receiving nominations for the Emirates Energy Award to June 30 to facilitate maximum possible entries.

"The EEA is a great opportunity for individuals and organisations to showcase their projects and exchange expertise. The award aims to honour outstanding projects and recognise best practices in the fields of energy efficiency," said EEA technical committee president Dr Eissa Bastaki.-TradeArabia News Service