The Renewables Energy Association has announced the shortlist for the annual British Renewable Energy Awards.

The competition had a record number of entrants this year with over 200 nominations.

The awards recognise oustanding efforts in the renewables sector, with categories for best region, company and individuals included.

Among the shortlisted names is Shadow Energy Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, up for the Champion of renewables gong, and Sainsbury’s has a nomination in the Pioneer category.

The Welsh Assembly Government is jockeying with Birmingham City Council and Cornwall City Council to take home the regional prize for renewables.

Commenting on the nominations, Peter Ainsworth, winner of both the PRASEG and the CIWM Parliamentarian of the Year award in 2009 will chair the awards ceremony. He said: “The astonishing variety and record number of entrants for the REA Awards this year tells its own story. Renewable Energy is mainstream, good for the environment, and just plain good business.”

A panel of judges including TV presenter and geologist, Professor Iain Stewart and the Met Office’sHead of Climate ChangeAdvice, Dr Vicky Pope will choose the winners, to be announced at the Gala Awards Dinner on 16th June in London.