The panel of judges for the Zayed Future Energy Prize, which recognizes companies and NGOs that have made an impact in the clean energy sector, has been announced with some big names on board. Hollywood box office sensation, Leonardo DiCaprio, along with tennis star Andre Agassi will choose next year’s winners of the prestigious award.
Alongside the celebrities are Maldives’ President Mohammed Nasheed, South Africa’s Energy Minister Elizabeth Dipuo Peters, UN Foundation and Better World Fund President Timothy Wirth, and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair’s wife, Cherie Blair.
South Africa’s Peters was chosen for her instrumental role in helping the African country incorporate its renewable feed-in tariff. The Cherie Blair Foundation helps provide support for female entrepreneurs in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia with access to business development support, networks, finance, and technology – including in the renewable energy sector.
The judges were chosen for their parts in projects related to environmental activism or clean energy, according to Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, director general of the prize, “along with a shared passion and commitment to advancing renewable energy and sustainability around the world.” He added, “We will greatly benefit by each of their specific areas of expertise and participation.”
To see the likes of DiCaprio and Agassi thrown into the mix seems nothing more than just a cause célèbre ploy to generate more interest. This isn’t to say that these stars haven’t contributed in some form to the environment, but are they really qualified to judge those candidates that have strived to promote and incorporate clean energy for a top prize worth $1.5 million?
DiCaprio has campaigned for changes in environmental policies through the Leonardo DiCaprio Fund. The fund, founded 13 years ago, is making an impact – to save tigers. However, Agassi has actually delved into the renewable energy arena by installing at 465-kW solar panel system at a US school for at-risk children.
While criteria is clear for those nominated for the award, the judge selection method remains unclear. Last year’s winner was Danish wind manufacturer Vestas. Alternative Energy Africa would like to encourage more African-based companies to participate and represent the continent. If you feel that your company is helping the renewable energy sector expand or know of a company that is making great leaps in the sector, please go to the Zayed Future Energy Prize website and apply for consideration.
Alternative Energy Africa is trying to reduce its own carbon footprint in 2011. Ask about our electronic subscriptions and online marketing campaigns specially tailored for individual companies.