The British Renewable Energy Awards, now in its fourth year, paid tribute to the UK renewable energy industry’s achievements at a packed gala dinner attended by over 360 people in the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in London, last night.

Hosted by the BBC journalist Sarah Mukherjee, the Awards named Labour MP Alan Simpson as the individual Champion for his political commitment, long term support for renewable energy and his lead in parliament on the renewable tariff campaign.

For the first time in their history one award had a joint winner. The Advocate award was shared between Friends of the Earth (for their work on the Renewable Tariff campaign) and Kirklees Council (for the RE-charge Scheme).

REA’s Director General, Philip Wolfe commented;

“These awards recognise outstanding achievement in the British renewable energy sector. They are a tribute to innovation and excellence. The exceptional quality of all the short listed entries serves to demonstrate the exacting standards, talent and originality within this industry.”

Philip Wolfe, the founder of the Awards ceremony, received his own special award to recognize his visionary leadership as the head of the Association.

After six years leading the REA he is stepping down to pursue other projects. The search for his successor is now well underway.

Following the awards presentation, dinner guests were treated to entertainment from comedian and environmental campaigner Alistair McGowan.

 Please see the other award winners below.

REA chairman Mark Candlish with Philip Wolfe and some REA staff

Please see here for a full list of winners, runners up and shortlisted nominees from the annual British Renewable Energy Awards 2009