Celebrating Excellence: Introducing the International Award Runners Up

In a milestone move for our Awards Program, the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) proudly announces the introduction of the International Award Runners Up. This marks a significant evolution in our commitment to recognizing outstanding achievements in energy management, energy efficiency, sustainability, and related fields.

Since its inception, the AEE Awards Program has served as a beacon, illuminating the innovative efforts and transformative initiatives that shape the energy landscape globally. By honoring those who embody excellence in their respective fields, we not only celebrate individual accomplishments but also propel the entire industry forward.

The introduction of the International Award Runners Up broadens the scope of recognition within the AEE Awards Program and reinforces our mission to promote best practices and elevate industry standards worldwide. As we celebrate these remarkable individuals and organizations, we invite the global community to join us in applauding their exemplary contributions to the field of energy and sustainability.

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Corporate Energy Management Runner Up– NETCARE

Netcare, South Africa’s largest private hospital group, has led in energy efficiency since 2013. With over 255 projects completed, Netcare has reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 13%, and per-bed emissions by 36%. Initiatives include energy-efficient water fixtures, heat pumps, and solar PV systems at 72 facilities, achieving a 39% reduction in energy intensity and over R1.5 billion in savings, ahead of their 10-year target.

Netcare also excels in water conservation and waste management, cutting total water consumption by 28% and recycling over 50% of general waste. The group aims for zero waste to landfill by 2027, reinforcing its leadership in healthcare sustainability.

Corporate Energy Management Runner Up – Standard Bank Group

The Standard Bank Group, active in 20 Sub-Saharan African countries, is committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 for new facilities, 2040 for existing operations, and 2050 for financed emissions. Since 2014, the Group has reduced its energy and carbon emissions by 50% (150 ktons CO2e) through metered data, energy efficiency, and renewable energy, without carbon offsets.

Their digital initiatives connect nearly a million clients to energy-efficient solutions and funding. Standard Bank’s efforts include implementing Solar PV systems, advanced HVAC, and LED lighting. The Group aligns with ISO50001 standards and International Well Building Institute guidelines to ensure both environmental sustainability and occupant wellness, achieving significant reductions in energy usage and carbon footprint across its operations.

Energy Engineer of the Year Runner Up – Graeme Jones

Graeme Jones has made significant contributions to advancing energy efficiency and sustainability. As Vice President of the Trinidad & Tobago AEE Chapter and a senior consultant at Guidehouse, Graeme has excelled in promoting the AEE’s agenda and educating the next generation of energy professionals. His technical expertise has led to the development of complex carbon abatement models and decarbonization strategies for major North American corporations, resulting in substantial carbon savings.

Graeme’s achievements include contributing to a Congressional Report on combined heat and power, managing CEM training courses, and organizing educational events on renewable energy. His work with RESSCOTT LTD involves innovative renewable energy projects and creating financial models to overcome implementation barriers. His dedication to energy efficiency, education, and practical solutions highlights his deservingness for this award.

Energy Engineer of the Year Runner Up – Steve Eber

Steve Eber, Director of Advanced Technologies at Willdan Energy Solutions, brings over 40 years of experience in power and energy system engineering. Eber has led the design and construction of both conventional and renewable energy systems, including cutting-edge projects like a heating system for NYCHA housing that uses far infrared panels to replace steam radiators. His work includes renewable pipeline gas systems, heat pump installations, solar PV, and battery storage. Notable projects include a 1,400 kW fuel cell plant for Verizon and an energy master plan for the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Eber’s expertise spans various sectors, and he actively mentors others in decarbonization technologies. In 2023, he was recognized as the NY Chapter’s Energy Engineer of the Year.

Energy Innovator of the Year Runner Up – Dr. Muhammad Arsalan

Dr. Muhammad Arsalan, with over 20 years in academia and industry sectors like energy and chemicals, is a leading innovator at Saudi Aramco’s Advanced Research Center (EXPEC ARC). He has made significant contributions through 58 US patents and over 100 publications, focusing on energy efficiency and sensor development. Dr. Arsalan leads the Digital ARC initiative’s Advanced Sensing team, driving upstream digital transformation. Notably, his work on microwave-based multiphase flow meters earned him the prestigious King Prize in Saudi Arabia. His leadership extends to strategic projects like AI-assisted virtual flow meters and high-temperature graphene batteries, cementing his impact on the energy industry. In 2023, he was named SPE Distinguished Lecturer for 2024-25 and commercialized several groundbreaking technologies.

Energy Innovator of the Year Runner Up – Colin Harrington

Colin Harrington, a Corporate Energy Process Engineer at Saint-Gobain, has been instrumental in accelerating large-scale, on-site energy implementations across 150+ North American sites. His work on Phase I, spanning over 15 sites, is projected to generate 20 MW of power, save $50 million, and reduce CO2 emissions by 330,000 metric tons. Colin also contributed significantly to Saint-Gobain’s Virtual Power Purchase Agreements (VPPAs), supporting 300 MW renewable energy systems and cutting 300,000 metric tons of CO2 annually. As an aspiring AEE Member and C.E.M. recipient, Colin’s innovative approach and leadership in energy management highlight his commitment to sustainability and his potential as a future industry leader.

Energy Manager of the Year Runner Up – Sultan Alzaabi

Sultan Alzaabi, Senior Manager of Demand Management & Tariff at Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), is a pioneer in energy efficiency (EE) and demand side management (DSM). With over 15 years of experience and qualifications including an MBA and Certified Demand Side Management (CDSM) certification, he has driven significant advancements in energy strategies and regulations. Alzaabi’s efforts have led to remarkable savings: $2.48 billion in operational costs and 17.3 million tons of CO2 avoided through the Dubai DSM Strategy 2030. His initiatives, such as the Smart Living program, saved $14.3 million and won the prestigious Sheikh Hamdan Award. His leadership in Dubai’s and the UAE’s DSM programs continues to position him as a leading force in energy management and sustainability.

Energy Manager of the Year Runner Up – Dan Mastin

Dan Mastin, Energy and Commissioning Manager at NY Presbyterian Hospital, oversees energy efficiency for one of the largest multi-campus hospitals in the region. His strategic focus on capital projects has led to annual savings of over 520 MWh and 40,000 MMBtu. Mastin enhances energy outcomes beyond traditional engineering designs, with notable projects such as cooling tower replacements, heat recovery systems, and efficient air handling units. He also rolled out a comprehensive system-wide training program for operations staff. A major voice in the healthcare industry’s carbon reduction initiatives, Mastin significantly contributed to New York City’s Climate Mobilization Act, demonstrating his commitment to energy management and sustainability.

Energy Professional Development Runner Up – Ghina Annan

Ghina Annan demonstrates exceptional dedication to transforming the global energy sector. As a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer, she has shaped industry standards and promoted sustainable practices through lectures and a dedicated YouTube channel. Ghina contributes significantly to ASHRAE’s initiatives, including co-authoring decarbonization guidelines and serving on technical committees. Her leadership extends to global platforms like COP28 and the United Nations RTOC, advocating for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. Ghina’s contributions to industry literature and green building programs underscore her commitment to advancing knowledge and sustainable solutions. Her candidacy for this award reflects her profound impact on shaping a sustainable future through innovation and leadership in energy development.

Energy Professional Development Runner Up – Erin Smith

Erin is a longstanding instructor in Trane’s renowned Graduate Training Program (GTP) for HVAC professionals. Recently, she spearheaded the development of a new GTP tailored for Energy Engineers, overseeing curriculum creation and successfully piloting its launch in 2023. With an inaugural cohort comprising 18 participants from the US and Latin America, Erin ensured the program’s second year is nearly fully subscribed. Participants gain essential skills in building auditing, energy modeling, utility bill analysis, energy conservation measures, savings calculation, and results validation, reinforcing Trane’s commitment to excellence in energy engineering education.

Energy Project of the Year: International Runner Up – Largest Multi-Residential Smart Building Conversion in North America

Led by Josh Lewis, a renowned Certified Energy Manager, the largest multi-residential smart building conversion project in North America was spearheaded by Drewlo Holdings and NERVA. Covering 85 properties and over 10,000 suites, the initiative optimized 1,500+ mechanical systems in just 10 months, resulting in impressive outcomes: $1.5M+ in annual energy savings and a 36% reduction in GHG emissions. Josh’s approach ensured each building received a tailored energy conservation strategy, balancing individual needs with scalable solutions. This project not only surpassed environmental targets but also established a new benchmark for energy efficiency in large-scale real estate, highlighting its significant impact on sustainability and operational cost savings.

Energy Project of the Year: International Runner Up – REESTART – Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency for Sustainable Energy Transition and Reinforced Trust

The REESTART project, a pioneering initiative in Lebanon and the Levant, has been nominated for the AEE Energy Project of the Year award for its transformative impact. In partnership with AEE HQ and AEE Lebanon, REESTART introduced ESCOs and Performance Contracting models, training 127 engineers across 35 companies in CEM, CMVP, and PCF certifications. This initiative facilitated the implementation of Energy Efficiency (EE) and Renewable Energy (RE) projects, overcoming financial barriers with innovative financing models. REESTART not only promotes clean energy technologies but also fosters entrepreneurship, job creation, and a supportive ESCO environment in Lebanon. Its comprehensive approach aligns closely with AEE’s mission to advance energy efficiency and sustainable practices globally. Recognizing REESTART with this award would highlight its significant contributions to energy management and inspire further innovation in the sector.

Energy Project of the Year: U.S. Runner Up – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center – Super Campus Steam to Hot Water Conversion

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) undertook a transformative initiative to convert its aging steam heating system from Con Edison to a hot water hydronic system. This project, led by World Energy Innovations (WEI), aimed to enhance efficiency, reduce utility costs, and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Completed in 2022 after starting construction in 2019, the conversion involved installing modular boiler rooms, condensing boilers, and combined heat and power units across MSK’s 2,490,355 sq. ft. Super Campus. The results include an 86,055 mmbtu (23%) decrease in heating energy usage, $19.5 million in utility savings, and a significant reduction in emissions, setting a new standard for sustainable infrastructure in healthcare facilities. This project earned recognition as the NY-AEE Chapter’s Energy Project of the Year 2023 for its innovative approach and substantial environmental impact.

Energy Project of the Year: U.S. Runner Up – UH Ahuja Medical Center

University Hospitals (UH) Ahuja Medical Center, inaugurated in 2011, exemplifies impactful innovation without altering the skyline. Despite initial accolades for design and sustainability, the facility faced operational challenges and high energy consumption. To address this, CCG Automation revamped the Building Automation System (BAS) controlling the Central Plant under a performance guarantee, achieving over $1 million in savings within the first year, concurrent with a major expansion project.

The project’s innovation lies in leveraging BAS capabilities creatively to enhance equipment control and energy efficiency. By integrating insights gained from ongoing operations, such as optimizing sensor placements and developing tailored Sequences of Operation, UH/Sodexo ensured significant savings and improved comfort. The phased approach and meticulous system enhancements resulted in a 28.4% drop in Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and reduced costs per square foot, showcasing how strategic BAS upgrades can transform building performance effectively and sustainably.

Innovative Energy Project of the Year Runner Up – Thru-tubing Retrievable Intelligent Completion System (TRICS)

TRICS revolutionizes well management with its pioneering approach to intelligent completions, transforming traditional multi-laterals into smart wells. This rig-less system enables real-time production monitoring and control, offering operators instantaneous insights and optimizing production strategies without costly interventions. By harnessing downhole flow turbines and surface solar panels, TRICS achieves energy independence, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability in oil and gas operations. Designed for easy retrieval and redeployment, TRICS boasts modular functionalities for seamless upgrades and maintenance, ensuring operational efficiency and safety enhancements. Recognized for its innovation, TRICS has garnered multiple international awards and patents, affirming its strategic value as a transformative technology in the energy sector.

Innovative Energy Project of the Year Runner Up – The Creation of Circular Economy: The First Cross Boundary Waste Heat System and Desiccant Dehumidification in Hong Kong

Beginning in 2019, Towngas and Maxim’s Group collaborated to develop the first cross-boundary waste heat system in Hong Kong, utilizing residual heat from Towngas’s Tai Po Gas Production Plant. Traditionally considered waste, this heat, generated during town gas production, is now captured and repurposed through innovative modifications to the cooling process. This green energy is transported via hot water pipelines to Maxim’s Group’s new food factory, where it powers a waste heat desiccant dehumidifier, replacing conventional heating elements. This system significantly enhances food safety by maintaining optimal humidity levels, reducing CO2 emissions by about 800 tonnes annually—equivalent to planting 34,000 trees. Since its launch in July 2023, the system has generated nearly 6TJ of recovery energy, reducing CO2 emissions by 630 tonnes compared to fossil fuel use. This project exemplifies waste-to-energy conversion and promotes circular economy principles, showcasing the potential for sustainable industrial innovation.

Institutional Energy Management – U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Public Housing

HUD’s Office of Public Housing continues to elevate energy management standards and support over 2,600 public housing authorities (PHAs) nationwide. In 2023, the Energy Branch enhanced its Rate Reduction Incentive (RRI) program, facilitating PHA participation in renewable energy initiatives. Additional technical assistance resources were deployed via an updated website, offering videos, tools, and guidance documents to bolster energy management at the PHA level. This comprehensive approach yielded record participation in the RRI program, with 104 PHAs receiving over $86 million in incentives. Moreover, the Energy Performance Contract (EPC) program facilitated $471.5 million in savings, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability across the public housing sector. HUD’s proactive initiatives and strategic guidance empower PHAs to navigate energy challenges effectively and contribute to national energy conservation goals.

Institutional Energy Management – Atrium Health

Atrium Health exemplifies excellence in institutional energy management, boasting 27 Energy Star certified buildings and a sustained partnership with Energy Star for over a decade. Recognized with the 2023 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year – Sustained Excellence Award, Atrium Health has consistently demonstrated leadership in energy efficiency. Since 2012, they have invested $12.5 million in energy projects, achieving a remarkable 35% reduction from their 2012 energy baseline. The Central Energy Plant (CEP) team, led by Sheldon Sinaswee at Carolinas Medical Center, embodies a proactive approach to energy management. Through ongoing commissioning, renewable energy investments, and optimization strategies, Sheldon’s team ensures operational efficiency and sustainability. Their dedication sets a benchmark in the healthcare sector, aligning with best practices and achieving significant energy savings year after year.

Young Energy Professional of the Year – Paulomi Nandy

Paulomi Nandy, an expert in greenhouse gas accounting and emissions reduction planning, plays a pivotal role in advancing climate action within the industrial sector. As an R&D Staff member at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and a key contributor to DOE’s Better Climate Challenge program, she guides leading manufacturers in enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions. Paulomi’s expertise in GHG inventory standards and emissions accounting has been instrumental in shaping corporate sustainability strategies and fostering industry-wide adoption of rigorous emission reduction practices. Her commitment to transparency and accuracy in GHG reporting underscores her role as a catalyst for climate mitigation efforts globally, making her a standout candidate for the Young Energy Professional Award.

Young Energy Professional of the Year – Pete Potego

Pete Potego’s journey from a rural upbringing to becoming an accredited energy manager at Standard Bank exemplifies dedication to energy management and sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa. Leading initiatives aligned with the Science-based Target Initiative, Pete spearheaded net-zero targets and implemented energy efficiency standards across the bank’s operations. His innovative approach integrates renewable energy solutions and water efficiency measures, driving substantial reductions in carbon emissions. Pete’s achievements in optimizing facility operations through advanced technologies and holistic energy strategies showcase his leadership and commitment to sustainable development. His impact on energy efficiency and wellness initiatives at Standard Bank sets a precedent for future energy professionals aiming to transform environmental stewardship in corporate settings.

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About the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)
The Association of Energy Engineers is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit professional society with over 17,000 members in more than 125 countries. AEE offers a variety of informational outreach programs including training, conferences, chapters, journals, and certification programs. The mission of AEE is to promote the scientific and educational interests of those engaged in the energy industry and to foster action for sustainable development.