Energy Managers Hall of Fame

Bobby “Bob” Starling, CEM, CDSM, has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation throughout a distinguished 33-year career in energy conservation and sustainability. His work has shaped transformative energy programs across military, civilian, and private sectors—reflecting a lifelong commitment to advancing energy efficiency and renewable technologies.

Bob’s career in energy conservation began with the United States Army Engineering and Support Center in Huntsville, AL, where he served as Program Manager and founded the Corps of Engineers’ Energy Program. Under his leadership, the program grew from a modest $180,000 annual budget into a $250 million-per-year enterprise. He was instrumental in developing Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs), a groundbreaking initiative that earned multiple Department of Defense energy awards and national recognition. In 1998, his team received two prestigious honors from Vice President Al Gore for projects that significantly reduced Army energy consumption.

After retiring from government service, Bob joined AMERESCO as Regional Director of its Charlotte, NC office. There, he managed energy savings projects across major government garrisons, overseeing more than $150 million in initiatives during his two-and-a-half-year tenure.

In 2005, Bob launched his own energy consulting firm, where he provided strategic support to contractors pursuing ESPC opportunities. His guidance led to an

extraordinary 92% success rate among clients competing for these contracts—demonstrating his deep expertise and industry insight.

Currently, Bob serves as a Principal Founding Partner of a solar development company that has patented a revolutionary solar collection device. This innovation captures over 110% more solar energy than any competing product on the market, positioning the company at the forefront of renewable energy technology.

Bob’s influence extends beyond technical innovation. As a founding member of the AEE Huntsville Chapter, he has served as vice president, president, and board member. He has chaired sessions and presented at AEE conferences, actively participates in international chapter officer webinars, and mentors emerging professionals through the AEE Mentoring Program.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from North Carolina State University and a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Outside of his professional pursuits, Bob is a licensed private pilot and certified open-water scuba diver—embodying a spirit of exploration and lifelong learning.

Bob Starling has not only driven energy efficiency across sectors but has also fostered a culture of innovation, mentorship, and sustainable development. His contributions to federal energy policy and private-sector advancement have left a lasting impact on the energy management profession.