energy innovators — The 2026 European Sustainable Energy Awards have shortlisted nine finalists, showcasing Europe’s top energy innovators in clean energy projects. The awards, organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy, recognise outstanding contributions to energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Energy innovators: Public Voting Now Open
Public voting for the awards opened on Tuesday, allowing citizens to support their favourite projects and leaders until May 31, 2026. The winners will be announced on June 9, 2026, during the EUSEW Awards Ceremony in Brussels.
Significance of the Event
This year’s edition carries special importance for Cyprus, which currently holds the EU presidency. The ceremony will see participation from Cypriot artists, and organisers hope this will inspire greater involvement from Cyprus in European energy initiatives.
Categories and Finalists
Finalists have been selected across three categories: SMEs Driving Energy Efficiency, Local Energy Action, and Women in Energy. Each category highlights innovative approaches to advancing clean energy solutions.
SMEs Driving Energy Efficiency
- Ener2Crowd: An Italian platform that mobilises citizen investment for energy efficiency projects in buildings and industry.
- Water Horizon: A French company providing low carbon cooling solutions that utilise mobile battery technology to capture and reuse waste heat.
- RE-LEAF: This Belgian initiative addresses energy poverty through mortgage-linked renovation support.
Local Energy Action
- 100 Projects Phasing Out Gas: A Vienna-based initiative promoting 100% renewable heating by replacing fossil gas in buildings.
- MultiHome: Operating in Bulgaria, this project provides a local cooperation platform for energy renovations in urban areas.
- Nova Energia Osona: This Spanish initiative builds alliances between local authorities and energy communities to facilitate the energy transition.
Women in Energy
- Suzanne Renard: Leading a movement in France that supports citizen-led renewable energy projects while promoting gender inclusion.
- Nadia Horstmann: Working at the German energy regulatory authority Bundesnetzagentur, she advocates for increased female representation in the energy sector.
- Donna Gartland: Driving Ireland’s transition to low carbon heating while fostering equality through innovative workplace practices.
European Sustainable Energy Week
The European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) is the largest annual event in Europe focused on renewables and energy efficiency. The 20th edition will take place in a hybrid format from June 9 to June 11, 2026, combining in-person events in Brussels with online participation.
Engagement Opportunities
The programme will feature a three-day policy conference, the awards ceremony, an energy fair, and activities aimed at young energy ambassadors. Additionally, stakeholders can organise Sustainable Energy Days, which are independent events promoting discussions on the energy transition. The deadline for organising these activities is set for May 24, 2026.
Looking Forward
The announcement of the finalists aims to encourage broader participation in sustainable energy initiatives across Europe. By highlighting innovative projects and individuals, the awards serve as a platform for inspiring further advancements in clean energy.
