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The power of researching renewables - Alana Pookim CEnv MEI
Alana’s interest in energy first piqued when she took a chance to work on the Landfill Tax Credit Scheme project during her time at the Ministry of Defence. This was a turning point in her career, propelling her into the energy sector and equipping her with market knowledge of the waste industry and its receptiveness to new ideas. Due to her knowledge base, Alana successfully secured funding from Viridor Waste Management for her PhD in Biomass Energy Production, marking a new era in Alana’s career. Her research in renewables was considered cutting-edge at the time, which established possibilities in the renewables sector. A standout milestone in Alana’s career included designing a biomass power station funded by the RMC, which led to the securing of a patent, and the acquisition of the Beacon sustainability award.
“Being an MEI gave me that professional recognition – it not only allowed me to be part of this energy community but it also helped to bridge conversations when working with other energy experts in cross-disciplinary projects.”
During a period when the power industry was undergoing deregulation, and renewables were perceived as expensive, Alana found motivation from the inquisitive and dynamic people that filled her working day.
“Energy is an exciting and dynamic industry to work in – it is constantly changing across the board, from the market to the technologies, so my advice would be not to shy away from change but to embrace it. It is an incredibly rewarding industry to work in where you’ll come across some really inspiring people who’ll be happy to help you along the way in your career – make sure to take those chances!”
Alana currently works as a Client Relationship and Business Development Manager at UK Power Networks Services, helping companies in the commercial building sector deliver cost-effective renewable energy solutions. With a belief that the industry focus will be on the delivery of non-fossil fuel power, Alana is striving to help companies achieve a sustainable solution to help deliver a zero-carbon future.
Information about EI membership can be found at https://www.energyinst.org/membership-and-careers/membership
