The Niamh Burke Memorial Bursary fosters and supports study and research in the field of renewable energy. It annually awards a sum of €10,000, which may be split between recipients, to support students pursuing education in this area.

The bursary is administered by Wind Energy Ireland and funded by Arthur Cox and Ms Burke’s family.

Mr Murphy and Ms Mackey impressed judges with their commitment to working to tackle the climate emergency and their passion for their chosen fields.

Mr Murphy hopes to pursue his studies for an MSc in Renewable Energy and Environmental Finance in UCD, while Ms Mackey will study for her Master’s in Environmental and Natural Resources in Law in UCC while also working as a legal secretary.

Alex McLean, partner at Arthur Cox, said: “Congratulations to Sean and Karin on being awarded the Niamh Burke Renewable Energy Bursary. We are really pleased to continue our support of the bursary along with Niamh’s family, which pays tribute to her contribution to the development of the Irish wind sector.

“We are committed to playing our role in building a more climate resilient society and so are delighted to be able to support the next generation of Irish talent who will assist in delivering the energy transition.”

Dave Linehan, head of research at Wind Energy Ireland, said: “The growing interest in green careers in renewables and wind energy means there is huge competition each year for this bursary. Supporting education in this area is vital. We need to encourage and enable the climate champions of the future to reach a zero-carbon Ireland.”

Commenting on the award, Mr Murphy said: “I am both delighted and honoured to receive this award in memory of Niamh Burke. The bursary will go towards the study of Renewable Energy and Environmental Finance in UCD’s Smurfit Business School.

“This programme will give me an understanding of how renewable energy projects are financed and how sustainability and ESG factors are becoming ever more important in investment decisions.”

Ms Mackey said: “The proceeds of this bursary will fund my studies in UCC in Environmental and Natural Resources Law. Following on from this, my hopes are to contribute the legal expertise I will have gained to make my own impact in the ever-continuing fight against climate change.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have been selected to receive this bursary in honour of Niamh Burke.”