Celebrating Excellence: The 2026 International Award Runners Up

The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) proudly recognizes the exceptional projects, individuals, and organizations nominated for the International Awards. To recognize outstanding achievements in energy management, efficiency, sustainability, and related fields, we’re highlighting this year’s International Awards Runners-Up.

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 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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Young Energy Professional Runner Up

Aya Musa

Aya Musa (EMIT, NABCEP PVA, LEED Green Associate) is a sustainability and energy engineering professional, with a strong record of delivering impactful sustainable solutions across the MENA region. She has built her career around three core pillars: energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and sustainable building practices.

In her current role as a Sustainability Engineer at KEO International Consultants, Aya contributes to the development and implementation of green building frameworks and sustainability strategies for major developments across the MENA region. Aya has also led energy audits for industrial and commercial facilities in Jordan, designed PV and power systems for masterplans and large-scale developments in the MENA region, and contributed technical expertise to Jordan’s Third National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP).

Beyond her technical work, Aya is a committed climate advocate, playing an active role in shaping youth climate policies at both the regional and international level, including co-authoring Jordan’s Global Youth Statements presented at COP28.

Aya’s journey with the AEE began during her time as an honor university student at Al Hussein Technical University (HTU), when she became the first recipient of the 2022 AEE Ruth Whitlock Scholarship, awarded to the top international female student in the STEM field. What began as an academic milestone has since evolved into an ongoing professional journey with the AEE, as Aya continues to bring the same passion, dedication, and commitment to her career in the energy and sustainability sector.

Young Energy Professional Runner Up

Abinash Kumar Gupta

Abinash Kumar Gupta, CEM, is a Senior Energy Engineer at ES2 with over five years of experience advancing industrial energy efficiency and decarbonization across commercial, industrial, and municipal sectors. He holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering and management from Oklahoma State University. His technical expertise includes energy assessments, building energy modeling, digital twins for energy management, and data-driven sustainability strategies.

Abinash has led approximately 100 energy assessments across diverse sectors and has identified more than $7.8 million in energy savings opportunities. His project work spans HVAC systems optimization, industrial process design and optimization, and strategic energy management initiatives. A standout achievement is his leadership in transforming an underutilized aerospace hangar into a high-performance engine overhaul and maintenance facility using digital twin methodologies, where he co-optimized production throughput and energy intensity as core design objectives. Through his work, Abinash has supported Oklahoma manufacturers and facility owners in securing over $1 million in implementation grants and incentives to accelerate energy-efficiency and decarbonization projects.

A strong advocate for innovation in the energy sector, Abinash has contributed to research and applied engineering initiatives involving digital twins, remote energy assessment frameworks, and industrial process optimization. He has published research through the Association of Energy Engineers, including work focused on decarbonization for a sustainable energy future, and regularly presents at professional and technical conferences on emerging energy technologies and sustainability strategies.

As the Technical Program Chair for the AEE Oklahoma Chapter, he has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission through professional development events and mentorship, training and guiding engineers into leadership roles. His contributions have been recognized with the Energy Champion Award (OSU-GPCOE, 2024), NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma (Class of 2025), and AEE Member of the Month—inaugural recipient (October 2025).

Energy Engineer of the Year Runner Up

Matthew Goss

Matthew Goss, PMP, PE, CEM, CEA, CDSM, LEED® AP (BD+C), is a Senior Vice President and the Infrastructure Services Group Director at CDM Smith, with more than 24 years of experience in mechanical engineering, energy systems, and clean energy implementation. He specializes in the planning, design, and delivery of high-performance HVAC, district energy, geothermal, renewable energy, and decarbonization solutions for municipal, industrial, and institutional clients.

Matt has led more than 75 energy projects worldwide, including large-scale energy audits, deep energy retrofits, district geothermal systems, cogeneration systems, and renewable energy feasibility and implementation efforts. His work has identified tens of millions of dollars in annual energy savings while improving system resilience and reducing carbon emissions.

A licensed professional engineer and certified energy professional, Matt is also a mentor and industry thought leader, committed to advancing sustainable infrastructure and developing the next generation of energy engineers.

Energy Engineer of the Year Runner Up

Anthony Annunziata, PE (NY), CEM, LEED AP

Anthony Annunziata has spent 30 years developing and leading comprehensive energy efficiency programs for major NY institutions where he’s helped clients overcome staffing and budget challenges, identifying alternative funding sources and secured millions in incentives; most notably creating a full-time energy management program for BronxCare Health System. His project at Brooklyn Children’s Psychiatric Center achieved significant reductions in energy, fossil fuel, and electricity use. Anthony is a respected figure in the NY energy community, actively sharing knowledge and mentoring future leaders. His leadership in internship programs has shaped young engineers who now lead energy initiatives at top NY organizations.

Energy Innovator of the Year Runner Up

Stephen Roosa

Stephen A. Roosa, Ph.D., MBA, CEM, BEP, CSDP, REP, CBCE, CMVP, is an energy engineering professional dedicated to developing solutions that bridge the gap between energy and sustainability. He is currently the owner of an enterprise specializing in asset management and is a former Senior Process Engineer and Energy Manager for a Fortune 100 company.

Dr. Roosa is a past President of the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) and currently serves as Director of Sustainable and Local Programs. He is also the Editor-in-Chief of AEE’s three professional journals.

Throughout his career, he has taught more than 150 seminars and workshops on energy management, sustainable development, renewable energy, and microgrids. He is the author of six books, has published more than 60 journal articles—including approximately 15 peer-reviewed papers—and has edited over 300 published papers on topics related to energy policy, conservation, engineering, management, renewable energy, distributed generation, and sustainable development.

His latest book, Tracking the Transition from Fossil Fuels to Clean Energy, is scheduled for release in September 2026.

Dr. Roosa is an AEE Fellow, a Legend in Energy, and a member of the AEE Energy Managers Hall of Fame. His honors include the AEE International Energy Manager of the Year Award, AEE Chapter Energy Engineer of the Year Award, the Federal Energy and Water Management Project Award, the U.S. National Energy Systems Technology Award, and the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Citation for Energy Management.

Energy Innovator of the Year Runner Up

Mustafa Hashim

Mustafa Hashim has more than 35 years of experience in energy management, utilities, process integration, and operational excellence, having worked with major multinational organizations including Amoco, BP, Shell, ICI, Technip, QatarEnergy, and Saudi Aramco. His postgraduate and doctoral studies further strengthened his expertise in energy and water integration, resource optimization, and sustainable industrial operations.

At Saudi Aramco, he led the development and enhancement of the Energy Management System (EnMS), including ISO 50001 alignment and the introduction of key performance indicators. He also championed the water–energy nexus initiative to improve efficiency and sustainability. Throughout his career, he has contributed to major utility and process projects and received recognition including AMOCO’s Chairman’s Executive Medal for Innovation (1997), BP’s Best Energy Site recognition, and the AEE Energy Manager of the Year Award (2023).

He has supported energy management excellence within Saudi Aramco and continues to focus on advancing energy efficiency, operational excellence, and sustainable industrial practices across the energy sector, while also publishing numerous energy–water-related technical papers worldwide.

Energy Manager of the Year Runner Up

Prem Prakash Mittal

Dr. Prem Prakash Mittal is a distinguished expert and Accredited Energy Auditor and Energy Manager with over 53 years of experience in the energy sector. He holds a Ph.D., an MBA, a Chartered Engineer and a LEED Auditor for the Indian Green Building Council. He is the founder and a life member of the AEE Delhi chapter and Managing Director of A-Z Energy Engineers Pvt. Ltd., established in 2012 to focus on energy conservation. Dr. Mittal has spearheaded more than 2,000 Energy Conservation assignments for a wide array of clients. His experience spans diverse industrial and commercial sectors, including Railways, Thermal Power Plants, Textiles, Chlor-Alkali, Fertilizer, Discom, Refinery etc. He is an advocate for the market-based Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT mechanism) a flag ship programme of Govt. of India, to improve industrial energy efficiency, to reduce specific energy consumption in energy-intensive industries. His exceptional contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades, recently i.e. in 2025 the prestigious International Award Recognition from AEE, Atlanta, as Runner up “Energy Engineer of the Year” Award, and multiple awards from the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India for MSME services and also from Hon’ble President of India as “Best Energy Auditing Company Award”.

Energy Manager of the Year Runner Up

John Giglio

John Carlo Giglio serves as the Chief Decarbonization Officer and Head Energy Manager for the New York City Police Department (NYPD), where he leads energy and sustainability initiatives across more than 200 facilities, including One Police Plaza. Under his leadership, the NYPD has implemented over $138 million in energy projects, resulting in significant reductions in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while advancing compliance with New York City’s Local Law 97.

Despite the unique challenges of operating within one of the world’s largest and most visible law enforcement agencies, John has successfully delivered major energy efficiency upgrades, HVAC electrification projects, solar installations, and LED lighting retrofits. His efforts have helped reduce energy use by 20% while maintaining the reliability, resilience, and security required for critical public safety operations.

In recognition of his outstanding achievements, John was named the New York AEE Chapter’s Energy Manager of the Year in 2024 and the AEE Northeast Region Energy Manager of the Year in 2025.

Energy Professional Development Runner Up

Alberto Ramos Millán

Dr. Alberto Ramos Millán is a recognized leader in energy efficiency, professional certification, and technical education. As a founding member of the AEE Spain Chapter, he has played a significant role in advancing energy management and professional development throughout Spain and Latin America. He has served on examination committees for the Certified Energy Auditor (CEA) and Business Energy Professional (BEP) certifications and contributed to the development of the Renewable Energy Professional (REP) and Solar PV Professional (SPVP) credentialing programs.
As an authorized trainer for the Certified Energy Manager (CEM), REP, and SPVP programs, Dr. Ramos Millán has delivered an average of three certification courses annually since 2012, helping nearly 1,000 professionals earn internationally recognized credentials. His training efforts have extended across Spain, Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, while also supporting online train-the-trainer initiatives that have expanded AEE’s global reach. He has also served as President of the Technical Committee for four editions of the IENER Congress in Spain, strengthening collaboration among academia, industry, technology providers, and policymakers.
A respected academic at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Dr. Ramos Millán has taught more than 3,000 students, supervised over 40 final projects, and contributed to three doctoral theses. His research accomplishments include 12 patents, more than 20 high-impact publications, five books on energy and efficiency, and an H-index of 11. Through his leadership in certification, education, research, and professional service, he has made a lasting impact on the global energy efficiency community.

Energy Professional Development Runner Up

Hassan Qandil

Dr. Hassan Qandil, PhD, PE (TX), CEM®, is a Clinical Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of North Texas and a Project Manager with NV5 Clean Energy. With 16 years of expertise spanning energy efficiency, renewable energy systems, energy performance contracting, measurement and verification, and sustainable infrastructure development, he has dedicated his career to advancing both the practice and education of energy engineering.

At the University of North Texas, Dr. Qandil develops and teaches advanced energy courses integrating industry best practices, professional certification concepts, as well as his real-world project experience into the classroom. As Faculty Advisor of the UNT AEE Student Chapter, he has created a culture of professional growth and industry engagement. Under his leadership, the chapter earned the 2025 AEE National Best Student Chapter Award, and his students have received multiple AEE regional honors, including Energy Engineer of the Year and Energy Project of the Year.

In his role at NV5 Clean Energy, Dr. Qandil leads and supports complex energy infrastructure and performance contracting projects for various sectors of clients across the United States. His work includes technical oversight and energy savings validation of large-scale Energy Savings Performance Contract initiatives involving millions of square feet of facilities and substantial public investment. Through this work, he helps organizations identify, implement, and verify energy conservation measures that reduce operating costs and advance sustainability and resilience goals.

Dr. Qandil’s research and professional contributions span renewable energy technologies, photovoltaic optimization, solar energy systems, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, bidirectional vehicle-to-grid integration, microgrids, and sustainable hydrogen systems. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and actively mentors students and emerging energy leaders. A recipient of a 2024 AEE Regional Award, Dr. Qandil remains committed to strengthening the energy profession through education, workforce development, professional certification, applied research, and service to the Association of Energy Engineers.

Corporate Energy Management Runner Up

Hongkong Land (Property Management) Limited

Mr. Don Tse is the Assistant General Manager and Head of Property Management, Hong Kong Central, at Hongkong Land (Property Management) Limited.

Don is passionate about advancing sustainable and innovative building operations. With over 20 years of experience in property management, technical services, energy management, and sustainability, he is deeply committed to driving sustainable practices and embracing innovative solutions that support the long-term viability and environmental stewardship of the built environment. As a Chartered Engineer and a member of the HKIE and CIBSE, he currently oversees building operations, technical services, sustainability targets and initiatives, as well as tenancy management across the Central Portfolio. Don continues to make a significant impact on the industry. He currently serves as President (2026–2027) of the IFMA Hong Kong Chapter and as a member of the Communications and Membership Committee and the Expert Group of the HKGBC.

Corporate Energy Management Runner Up

CLP Power Hong Kong Limited

CLP Power Hong Kong Limited (CLP) supplies electricity to over 80% of Hong Kong’s population and has played a vital role in supporting the rapid growth of the city’s data centre sector. Driven by a strong commitment to sustainability, CLP have rolled out a forward-looking energy efficiency strategy for the Data Center customers, covering energy efficiency and conservation promotion, industry education and engagement, technical advisory & optimisation services, Renewable Energy solutions and funding support etc.. Hong Kong’s data centre Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) has improved substantially over the past 15 years, delivering an annual energy saving of over 750 GWh. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of the data centre stakeholders, with CLP serving as an indispensable enabler and contributor to this success.

These initiatives are led by Professor Anthony Lo, Director of Customer Success and Sales at CLP. Professor Lo brings extensive expertise in building services engineering, green building design, and energy management. He plays a key role in shaping energy management strategies, advancing innovative technologies, and driving the implementation of energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and renewable energy initiatives across the data centre ecosystem.

Under his leadership, CLP continues to strengthen collaboration with industry stakeholders, enabling low-carbon transformation and enhancing Hong Kong’s position as a leading green data centre hub in the region.

Institutional Energy Management Runner Up

Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF)

Rasmi A. Hamzeh is the Executive Director of the Jordan Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF) and has 30 years of professional experience as a business development consultant across different sectors, including serving as CEO of several institutions. Over the past 11 years, he has transformed JREEEF from a legal component of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Law into a fully operational, efficient national government organization. He designed JREEEF’s strategy and implementation plans and coordinated efforts with international donors, organizations, and NGOs to support Jordan’s response to global climate change and promote low-carbon economic development and sustainable energy. He has led fundraising efforts, securing over USD 85 million in five years from various international donors, and has also spearheaded national awareness campaigns on renewable energy and energy efficiency. In addition, Rasmi has advocated for renewable energy laws and regulations at all levels, including the Cabinet, Parliament, the private sector, business associations, local NGOs, and people of Jordan.

Institutional Energy Management Runner Up

CPFL Energia

CPFL Energia is one of Brazil’s largest energy companies and a leading player in the country’s power sector. With operations spanning electricity distribution, generation, commercialization, and energy services, the company serves millions of customers across multiple Brazilian states. Since 2017, CPFL Energia has been part of State Grid Corporation of China, one of the world’s largest utility companies.

Committed to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence, CPFL Energia invests in energy efficiency, smart grid technologies, renewable energy, and digital transformation initiatives that contribute to the modernization of Brazil’s electricity sector. Through its programs and partnerships, the company promotes the efficient use of energy, reduces environmental impacts, and supports the transition toward a more sustainable energy future.

Innovative Energy Project of the Year Runner Up

Netcare Alberton Aneorobic Digestion Plant

Netcare is South Africa’s leading private healthcare provider and a recognised industry leader in environmental sustainability, energy resilience, and responsible healthcare infrastructure management. Through its comprehensive sustainability strategy, Netcare has implemented large-scale energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and waste-to-value initiatives across its national hospital network. The organisation continues to set new benchmarks for sustainable healthcare operations in Africa, integrating environmental stewardship with patient care excellence and operational resilience.

Netcare’s sustainability achievements include significant progress in decarbonisation, embedded renewable energy generation, energy optimisation, water resilience, and circular waste management solutions including the Alberton Anaerobic Digestion Plant, which converts healthcare and organic waste into renewable energy.

Innovative Energy Project of the Year Runner Up

Innovative Solution for Industrial Facilities- Energy Systems AI-assisted Optimum Design (OPTIX)

Mana Al-Owaidh is a seasoned energy expert with over 24 years of experience in industrial energy efficiency and optimization. He holds a Master’s degree in Energy Systems Engineering and is a certified energy professional (CEM, CIEP).

Throughout his career, he has contributed to energy auditing, system optimization, and the development of innovative solutions to improve industrial energy performance. He is also a recognized innovator and author, having developed patented solutions and published numerous technical papers and reports on energy-related topics.

Mr. Al-Owaidh has received multiple awards for his contributions to the field and has served as Chairman of the Energy Systems Standards Committee at Saudi Aramco, supporting the development of energy standards and best practices within the organization.

Energy Project of the Year U.S. Runner Up

Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation

The Honolulu Department of Parks & Recreation and NORESCO partnered on a $39M energy savings performance contract to modernize 49 priority sites, delivering $94M in guaranteed savings. This innovative project restored community assets, reopening closed pools, while integrating smart irrigation at 15 parks, and installing chlorine generation at 14 pools to improve safety and efficiency. Over 4,800 LED fixtures, high-efficiency transformers, and athletic field lighting upgrades reduced energy demand and maintenance costs. Digital transparency through a GIS dashboard fostered community engagement. By aligning technological advancement with sustainability and community value, this project raises the bar for municipal energy innovation nationwide.

Energy Project of the Year U.S. Runner Up

CSU Fresno Central Plant

The Fresno State Central Utility Plant Replacement Project exemplifies innovation and impact in energy management. As the largest Public-Private Partnership utility infrastructure project in the California State University system, it modernized a 70-year-old plant with high-efficiency heating and cooling, advanced BAS, LED retrofits, DHW heat pumps, and a 4.85 MW solar PV system. Verified savings exceeded guarantees, achieving an overall energy savings of 33%, 73% natural gas reduction, and significant CO₂ and water savings. This project not only meets CSU’s aggressive sustainability goals but sets a replicable model for large-scale campus decarbonization and resiliency across higher education.

Energy Project of the Year International Runner Up

SANPARKS – KGALAGADI TRANSFRONTIER PARK (SEM SOLUTIONS)

SEM Solutions is an Energy Engineering company that specialises in tailoring bespoke solutions for the energy requirements of Commercial and Industrial (C&I) clients. Established in 1997, the company is owned and run by experienced, professionally registered Mechanical and Electrical Engineers. With our future mindset we believe in starting with the end in mind, which is why we follow an holistic approach, considering all the needs, wants, challenges and opportunities of our clients. We imagine, design, optimise and execute integrated and dynamic energy solutions for various businesses across multiple market sectors. Our ability to provide expert advice and deliver professional designs that realise the promised returns, distinguishes us from the rest of the market.

Energy Project of the Year International Runner Up

SimREF Model – Digital Tool for Reheating Furnace Optimization

SimREF model is the result of more than 40 years of accumulated ArcelorMittal R&D expertise in reheating furnace thermal modelling and operation. Originating from early developments in the 1980s and 1990s, it progressively evolved into a robust industrial solution combining scientific accuracy and practical usability. Today, it is structured around two complementary tools: SimREF Offline for engineering studies and strategy optimization, and SimREF Online for real-time control and energy-efficient operation. Continuous modernization has transformed it into a scalable and easily deployable solution, effectively converting R&D know-how into operational value.

SimREF has achieved extensive deployment worldwide, making it one of the most widely implemented R&D solutions within ArcelorMittal Group. It is currently used across dozens of furnaces and multiple plants in different countries, covering Flat, Long, and Plate production lines. Its progressive rollout across key industrial sites demonstrates both its adaptability to diverse plant configurations and its maturity as a standardized tool. Regular improvements further enhance usability, reliability, and deployment efficiency.

Most importantly, SimREF delivers significant and measurable management gains in energy efficiency and productivity. The solution has been accounted for US$68M value created through reductions in fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, and production losses, while improving furnace performance under constrained conditions.

SimREF stands as a proven, high‑value industrial standard, and we are open to discussing deployment opportunities beyond ArcelorMittal.