A UNSW graduate engineer helping develop smart grid technologies for NSW has been named Australia's Young Professional Engineer of the Year.

Adrian Clark graduated from UNSW's Faculty of Engineering in 2001 with a Masters in Telecommunications and first class honours in a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering).

Mr Clark is now leading the team developing EnergyAustralia's smart grid program, which will install smart sensors across the state's power network to make it more reliable and energy efficient.

He was presented with his prize at the recent Australian Engineering Excellence Awards held at Parliament House, Canberra.

NSW Minister for Science and Medical Research Jodi McKay praised Mr Clark for his outstanding early career achievements.

"Adrian is a powerful example of the high standard of expertise among our engineering sector," Ms McKay said.

Mr Clark has developed a strong reputation locally and overseas as an expert in the new field of intelligent networks and, prior to his current role, he was instrumental in the development of EnergyAustralia's telecommunications strategy.

Media Contact: Peter Trute | 02 9385 1933 | p.trute@unsw.edu.au