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Congratulations to MSc Business Analytics student Uttam Sharma and MSc in Strategic Management student Shubhangi Gupta, who were awarded the Best Pitch Award at the Solar Ireland 2025 Hackathon, held on 2nd October 2025 and organised by Solar Ireland (formerly the Irish Solar Energy Association).

The pair’s innovative project, titled “Rural Rays”, impressed judges for its creative and impactful approach to tackling energy poverty through solar innovation. Their solution focused on “Solar for Energy Justice: Tackling Energy Poverty with Innovation,” developing a concept that integrates community-based solar solutions to bring affordable, sustainable power to rural areas.

Supported by their academic advisor, Associate Professor Paula Carroll, Uttam and Shubhangi combined data-driven insights, business acumen, and social awareness to design a project that reflects UCD Smurfit School’s mission to provide cutting edge transformational learning and development opportunities for students.

Associate Professor Paula Carroll praised their achievement, noting that “Uttam and Shubhangi’s success demonstrates the power of combining skill sets and using business analytics for management insight, as well as their passion for social and environmental impact — values that are at the heart of UCD Smurfit School’s educational philosophy.”

The Solar Ireland Hackathon brought together individuals from across Ireland to address key challenges in the renewable energy sector. UCD Smurfit School’s participation highlights the College’s strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and leadership development — preparing students not just to succeed in business, but to shape a better future.

For more information, visit the Solar Ireland Hackathon website.