An industry award programme for students has been re-launched by Privilege Finance, with a focus on rewarding innovative approaches and research into climate change solutions.

The Climate Change Thought Leadership Award is now open to applications from undergraduate, masters, or PhD students at UK universities. Privilege has provided a £2,000 (€2,300) prize fund, made available alongside a mentoring programme.

Stevie Leeks of Privilege explained why the award has been renamed following the success of the inaugural event in 2020: “The award is now open to a wider range of students, whose main research project is focused on a solution which will contribute towards the reduction of reversal of climate change.

“It could be related to renewable energy generation, energy storage technologies, or a new method of removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

“Students researching new technologies or innovative applications of existing solutions really are the thought leaders of tomorrow. The purpose of the award is to celebrate the inspiring work these students are undertaking and to demonstrate the opportunities available in the industry, which is where their ideas could become a reality and make a real difference.”

There are two £1,000 (€1,165) cash prizes available and the winning students will also have access to mentoring and a tour of an AD facility, meeting the developer, operations team and funders, plus access to a range of industry contacts for 12 months.

Applications can be submitted via the Privilege Finance website.