Grand Prix for Improving the Energy Performance of Heritage Properties in State Care Initiative celebrated in Dublin
The presentation of the European Heritage Award / Europa Nostra Award 2026 and the Grand Prix in Education Training and Skills to Improving the Energy Performance of Heritage Properties in State Care Initiative, developed by Ireland’s Office of Public Works (OPW), took place at the National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin on 15 September 2026.
The ceremony followed the Heritage + Climate Symposium, co-organised by the OPW, the Department of Heritage and ICOMOS Ireland, which explored the relationship between climate action, heritage policy and the energy performance of historic buildings. The symposium was held in the framework of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026. It highlighted the importance of developing practical approaches to improving the energy performance of historic buildings while safeguarding their heritage value.
The OPW received the Award and the Grand Prix for developing practical guidance and a technical training programme to help public authorities improve the energy performance of historic buildings without compromising their heritage significance. By equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to address these challenges, the initiative demonstrates how climate action and heritage conservation can complement and reinforce one another.
Andrew Potts, Heritage and Climate Action Advisor at Europa Nostra, took part in the events.
The evening ceremony was opened by John Conlon, Chairman of the OPW, and attended by around 60 guests, mainly representing the heritage, cultural and public sectors. Among those present were Peter Power, Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland; Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works; and Fionnuala Croker, Europa Experience Manager at the European Parliament.
The Award plaque was presented by representatives of Europa Nostra and the European Commission to John Conlon and Minister Moran, in recognition of the OPW’s outstanding contribution to the sustainable future of Europe’s built heritage.
On receiving the Award, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran T.D., Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, said: “The innovation and work of the OPW team shows how we can protect our historic buildings while also improving their energy performance for the future. I am delighted to recognise the OPW’s award-winning training initiative, which demonstrates real leadership and innovation in helping us meet these challenges”.
John Conlon, Chairman of the OPW, emphasised the wider significance of the recognition, stating: “This award is a powerful validation of a truth we have long championed: that our past can truly light the way to a sustainable future. It proves that climate action and the preservation of our historic treasures do not have to be at odds. Instead, they can and must walk hand in hand.”
Representatives of the OPW team also joined the celebration, with Rosemary Collier, OPW Assistant Secretary for Heritage Services and Capital Works, paying tribute to the dedication and collaboration behind the achievement. Reflecting on the significance of receiving the Grand Prix, she said: “Receiving the Grand Prix is an incredible milestone, representing years of rigorous technical exploration and shared dedication to the preservation of our built heritage. An achievement of this magnitude belongs to many, and it reflects the power of deep, cross-sectoral and public-private collaboration”.
The recognition of the OPW’s work highlights the essential role of public authorities in advancing climate action while protecting historic buildings.
