49M, Eskom’s nationwide campaign aimed at mobilising South Africans to become more conscious of their energy usage, will sponsor two categories in this year’s Eskom eta Awards. The eta Awards reward exceptional, innovative and outstanding efforts by individuals, students, companies and other institutions in the efficient use of energy.
The winner in each category receives a cash amount of R30 000 and R5 000 could go to each of the runners up in each category. The two categories which 49M will be sponsoring – energy efficiency awareness and energy saving in households – are critical focus areas of the 49M campaign. The campaign aims to cultivate a culture of saving energy and secure a better and more sustainable future for all by getting South Africans to band together to save energy. The household category rewards those who have implemented creative and effective energy efficiency applications at home. The awareness category rewards those who have made a significant and visible impact in spreading the word on the importance of relieving the growing pressure on the electricity grid.The winners in both categories could receive a R30 000 cash prize. Dr Steve Lennon, Eskom group executive for Sustainability says: “This partnership is a natural collaboration for Eskom. 49M is our flagship campaign and ties in perfectly with the eta Awards as both are committed to finding a sustainable solution to South Africa’s energy needs.”
The eta Awards have for the past 23 years attracted hundreds of entries from individuals, schools, businesses and government departments and rewarded those demonstrating excellence and innovation in energy efficiency. “We believe it is our role to work closely with government, business and the public to encourage this energy saving mindset among our 49 million (and growing) population. With increased pressure on energy resources not only in South Africa but worldwide, it has never been more important to use electricity wisely,” explains Dr Lennon. This year’s winners will be announced at a gala event on 15 November 2012. Entries have already opened and close on 3 August 2012.
