IDRIC Director Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer Awarded OBE for Services to Low Energy Technologies

We are delighted to announce that our Director, Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to Low Energy Technologies, as announced in King Charles III’s New Year Honours List 2026.

The honour recognises Professor Maroto-Valer’s internationally respected leadership in energy innovation and her outstanding contribution to technologies that reduce industrial emissions while supporting long-term economic growth.

Based at Heriot-Watt University, IDRIC plays a central role in accelerating the decarbonisation of the UK’s industrial heartlands, bringing together academia, industry and government to deliver practical, scalable solutions to the net-zero challenge. Funded by UKRI Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the centre supports economic growth through real-world innovation in industrial decarbonisation.

“I am sincerely grateful and feel humbled by this recognition. It reflects the dedication of an outstanding team and partners working together to support a fair energy transition. Receiving this distinguished honour reinforces my commitment to promoting meaningful progress for a sustainable and prosperous energy future that benefits all.”

Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer

In addition to leading IDRIC, Professor Maroto-Valer is Heriot-Watt University’s Deputy Principal for Global Sustainability and Director of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS). She also serves on the UN Council of Engineers for the Energy Transition (CEET), contributing expert guidance on global pathways to net zero.

Professor Maroto-Valer will formally receive her OBE at a ceremony in 2026.