The winners included:
Wimmera Southern Mallee Energy Collaboration won the Collaboration Award, in recognition of their work in bringing together the energy sector, government and local leaders to work differently on the energy transition in the region. Led by WSM Development and backed by The Energy Charter, the group has formalised shared commitments and launched joint projects on commitments, fire planning and youth pathways. It’s a working partnership grounded, unfinished and already changing how people show up and act together.
Potentia Energy won the Community Value and Impact Award, recognising their partnership with the Girgarre community in Victoria to deliver a solar farm that supports local aspirations, economic revitalisation and inclusive growth. Through deep collaboration, benefit sharing and cultural respect, the project became a source of pride and empowerment, demonstrating a scalable model for community-led renewable energy development in regional Australia.
The First Nations Engagement and Participation Award was won by First Nations Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng and Taribelang Bunda People Development Corporation and European Energy Australia, in recognition of their co-designed renewable energy development partnership at Aldoga Wind Farm. Grounded in shared equity and cultural collaboration, the project sees Traditional Owner leadership, participation, and benefit-sharing, as well as the embedding of cultural values, self-determination and mutual respect into every phase.
Blackrock Industries, Fluence and AGL won the Diversity and Inclusion Award, in recognition of their partnership to give incarcerated First Nations men more than just jobs, but hope. On the world’s largest battery project, the Liddell Battery Energy Storage (BESS) project, they found dignity, purpose and belonging. Many are now in full-time work, living proof that when given a chance, people can transform their lives.
The Sydney Morning Herald’s Climate and Environment Reporter, Caitlin Fitzsimmons, won the Media Award, acknowledging her outstanding coverage on the progress, challenges and debates in the energy transition, aimed at debunking myths and addressing common issues relating to the transition using real-life case studies and graphics. Her stories have reached tens of thousands of readers through print and online channels.
Andy McCarthy, Chief Strategy Officer at CEP.Energy was the winner of this year’s Outstanding Contribution to Clean Energy Award.
A pioneer of the Australian solar industry, Andy has built a highly successful solar business in the heart of coal country and championed a strong industry underpinned by quality and care for customers and people. In sharing his own personal story and challenges, he has also raised the importance of mental health across the industry and the Australian public.
Outgoing Clean Energy Council Chief Executive, Kane Thornton, said that the 2025 awards recognise and celebrate the brightest talent within the sector looking to make a positive difference as the growth of renewables continues in Australia’s energy system.
“Our award winners have led by example, and have demonstrated a strong commitment to working with local communities, and maximising the benefits of the clean energy transition for all Australians,” he said. “I want to congratulate and thank all of our 2025 award winners, as well our finalists for all that they do for the sector, and on their achievements.”
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