The Business Network for Offshore Wind announced that its 2022 Ventus Awards are now open for nominations. The Ventus Awards are Network's highest level of professional recognition, celebrating the trailblazing people, companies, organizations, and work worldwide ushering in the global adoption of offshore wind energy. Awards are comprised of nine unique categories designed to honor all contributions and facets of the offshore wind industry. Nominations are open now through September 19 and winners will be honored at the Ventus Gala.

In partnership with Recharge, the Ventus Awards honor the individuals, companies, and organizations that embody the powerful force of wind that sets the industry on course for a new and promising future. Be it products, programs, or technology that allow us to harness offshore wind to better the lives of those around us through clean energy, a safer environment, and innovative jobs, the Ventus Awards honor those achievements. Each category (full list below) will be judged by industry luminaries representing the breadth of the offshore wind industry. Winners will be profiled in Recharge, featured at the 2023 International Offshore Wind Partnering Forum, and more. 

"The Ventus Awards shine a spotlight on the work being done globally by the people, companies, and organizations making a difference through their talent, drive, and commitment to advance the offshore wind industry, create jobs, and improve the environment," said Liz Burdock, president and CEO of the Business Network. "Each of the nine categories highlights a key aspect of industry development that is critical for the continued growth of the offshore wind industry worldwide." 

The Ventus Awards draws its name from the word essential to the industry: wind. It also refers to the Venti, or Roman Gods for wind – each with their own directional power from north, south, east, and west. The nine categories are: 

• Advancement in Project Siting & Development
• HSE Program of the Year
• Innovation of the Year
• Next-Gen Leadership
• Offshore Wind Leadership
• Supply Chain Advancement
• Talent Management Leadership
• Viterna Award for Engineering Excellence
• Heronemus Award for Outstanding Achievement in Offshore Wind (closed to nominations)

"Recharge is pleased and privileged  to once again partner with the Business Network for Offshore Wind for the Ventus Awards," said Recharge Editor in Chief Darius Snieckus. "These awards provide an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of key players and organizations dedicated to driving the global advancement of the offshore wind sector and highlight the innovation, passion, and tenacity they've shown in doing so." 

All Ventus Awards are open to nominations with the exception of the Heronemus Award, which is named after William Heronemus (1920-2002), who is considered the father of modern wind power. Nominations in more than one category and self-nominations are allowed (FAQs). All completed applications will be reviewed by a panel of judges representing the breadth of the offshore wind industry. Winners will be honored as part of the Ventus Gala, a black-tie event taking place in Washington D.C. on November 17 at the Schuyler Hotel. Tickets and table reservations will be available beginning June 7. 

Business Network for Offshore Wind | offshorewindus.org