Prestigious Poul la Cour Prize for ECN scientist

ECN scientist Jos Beurskens was awarded the Poul la Cour prize to on April 3rd, 2008 during the closing session of the European Wind Energy Conference & Exhibition 2008 (EWEC). The prize was presented to him by EU Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez Potočnik. Awarded annually is the most prestigious award in the field of wind energy. It is presented to people who have been exceptionally important for the growth of the wind energy ‘industry’ in Europe, such as key researchers and innovative captains of industry.

During the presentation of the prize, it was revealed that Jos Beurskens was not only present at the birth of wind energy in the Netherlands and Europe, but also fathered the baby, changed its diapers and ensured it grew successfully. The result can be seen in the landscape.

Jos Beurskens (l) recieves the award from EU Commissioner
for Science and Research, Janez Potočnik. 

During his studies, Beurskens started with the development of windmills for developing countries. In Zambia and on the Cape Verde Islands, he worked on water-pumping windmills. Back in the Netherlands, Beurskens then became involved in the first National Research Programmes for Wind Energy as business unit manager for ECN's Sustainable Energy Business Unit. ECN Wind Energy later evolved from this unit. He is currently Scientific Director of the offshore WE@remove-this-part-SEA wind energy program and works as a senior researcher and project manager at ECN.

Beurskens has had a major influence on numerous research programs of the European Union and research institutes in Germany. He has co-founded various national and European wind energy organisations and still plays a crucial role in the development of research programs.

During his acceptance speech Beurskens mentioned that he still has not forgotten Africa. Beurskens hopes to retrace his steps in the future by devoting himself once again to improving the living conditions of people there.