The Clean Energy Hall of Fame Awards is an annual event designed to honor the leadership and outstanding achievements of Californians who help advance the state’s clean energy goals. The awards aim to motivate and inspire all stakeholders to continue to lead California to a 100 percent clean energy future by 2045. As California Governor Gavin Newsom said, “We will never waver on achieving the nation’s most ambitious clean energy goals.” The Clean Energy Hall of Fame Award winners exemplify these principles.
“We started this award in 2020, to lift up some of the amazing local leadership around our state. There is so much work happening on the ground — real, transformative work — that rarely gets recognized. This program exists to correct that and to make sure those leaders are seen, supported, and celebrated.” – CEC Chair Hochschild
Who should apply: Individuals who have contributed to California’s clean energy future through their bold moves, leadership, and innovative ideas. Nominees may be entrepreneurs, business owners, influencers, teachers, students, community leaders, or anyone who has championed clean energy in a meaningful way. You may nominate yourself or others.
What winners receive: Six Clean Energy Hall of Fame winners will be recognized at a ceremony on Dec. 10, 2026, in Sacramento. They will be featured in a short video highlighting their contributions, shot on location, which will be screened at the ceremony and shared on CEC social media channels (visit the 2025 awardee videos here - YouTube). They will be recognized on the CEC’s Hall of Fame plaque as well as at a ceremonial tree planting in the winner’s name. Winners are encouraged to use publicity materials to further their reach and spread their clean energy sphere of influence.
“This is one of my favorite days of the year — celebrating clean energy champions from across California who are actually driving what is now recognized as remarkable global leadership. This day is all about lifting up leaders.” – CNRA Secretary Wade Crowfoot
Why: As the state's primary energy policy and planning agency, the Energy Commission plays a critical role in creating the energy system of the future. The Clean Energy Hall of Fame promotes the work of individuals who are making significant contributions to California’s clean energy future and inspires others to continue innovating and leading the way. We want to celebrate you.
When: Nominations open March 12, 2026, and close June 1, 2026. Award Ceremony is December 10, 2026. Winners can expect to be notified by July 31, 2026.
2026 Clean Energy Hall of Fame Awards Submission Form
Submissions deadline: June 1, 2026.