Gas Networks Ireland’s Michael Crowley honoured with NSAI “1997 Award”

Gas Networks Ireland’s Asset Performance Manager Michael Crowley has been awarded the esteemed “1997 Award” by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) in recognition of his enduring commitment and invaluable contributions to standards work within the Irish gas industry.

Presented by Geraldine Larkin, CEO of the NSAI at the Standards Forum & Awards Annual Ceremony in Dublin, the “1997 Award” was introduced following the establishment of the organisation by the National Standards Authority of Ireland Act 1996 and is awarded to members of NSAI Committees in recognition of the significant contribution to standards work. 

A native of Mallow, Co. Cork, Michael joined the national gas utility in 2000 (then Bord Gáis Networks). Throughout his career, Michael has actively engaged in shaping national and international standards for natural gas, biomethane, and hydrogen. In 2020, he was appointed Chair of the NSAI’s newly formed TC 11 Gas Quality committee, where he has led Ireland’s contributions to the quality standards for renewable gases like hydrogen and biomethane.

Reflecting on the award’s significance, Liam Nolan, Head of Technical Development and Technical Training at Gas Networks Ireland and Chair of the Gas Technical Standards Committee (GTSC) of NSAI, commented:

“Michael’s award is a testament to his outstanding dedication and the critical role he has played in advancing Ireland’s gas infrastructure standards, particularly as we continue to transform our network to carry renewable gases including biomethane and hydrogen. In addition, his leadership and expertise have greatly strengthened the GTSC’s mission, ensuring that Ireland remains at the forefront of technical standards that meet both national and international expectations.”

Gas Networks Ireland’s Director of People, Nicola McSweeney, also expressed the company’s pride in Michael’s achievements:

“At Gas Networks Ireland, we are committed to fostering technical excellence, and Michael’s award reflects the dedication our people bring to their roles every day. We are immensely proud of Michael’s recognition by the NSAI, particularly in a year when Gas Networks Ireland was also honoured with Engineers Ireland’s CPD Employer of the Year Award for our Female Development Programme. This double recognition underscores our commitment to both technical and professional development.”

In addition to his work with the TC 11 Gas Quality committee, Michael has represented Ireland at numerous European committees, including CEN/TC 234 on gas infrastructure and CEN/TC 237 on gas meters, and has actively contributed to international discussions on hydrogen standards through CEN/CLC/JTC 6. His technical insights have been instrumental in shaping European standards and bringing them into alignment with Irish regulatory frameworks.

Michael’s knowledge and experience have further extended to national industry education. Recently, he was a featured speaker in an NSAI hosted webinar for Engineers Ireland and Institute of Engineering and Technology members. His presentation on the technical challenges of integrating hydrogen into gas networks sparked a wave of interest from industry experts eager to join hydrogen related standardisation efforts.

This award celebrates Michael Crowley’s exemplary commitment to standards work and highlights Gas Networks Ireland’s leadership and dedication to Ireland’s evolving energy landscape.