State Leadership in Clean Energy

The biennial awards highlight states that have established funds to provide critical capital investments for clean energy projects as well as states that have collaborated effectively with industry partners, utility commissions, and local governments―all crucial ways to expand clean energy markets. Award winners are state-funded or municipal-utility supported programs. CESA-member organizations from across the U.S. submit nominations for the leadership awards. The award recipients are chosen by an independent panel of distinguished judges, including clean energy experts from national energy labs, energy-related nonprofits, former state and national political leaders, and national organizations working on clean energy and the clean energy economy.

For each year in which the awards are given, CESA prepares a summary report with case studies highlighting the winning programs, hosts a series of webinars to detail the best practices and lessons learned, and shares the success of the award winners through blogs and social media. See the links at the left for more information about the biennial State Leadership in Clean Energy award’s previous recipients and learn more about these outstanding programs.

In addition to the biannual State Leadership in Clean Energy Awards, CESA also issues the annual Lewis M. Milford Clean Energy Champion Award to honor an individual who has made a substantial impact on the expansion of clean energy and who has influenced the progress of clean energy markets. Named after Lewis M. Milford, the founder of the Clean Energy States Alliance and Clean Energy Group, the award honors leaders who have dedicated themselves over many years to advance the transition to a clean, renewable energy system. This is the first year that the award is being given. Award winners are chosen by the CESA Board of Directors.

The winner of the 2024 Clean Energy Champion Award is Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Esq., the People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia. The Office of the People's Counsel (OPC) is an independent agency of the District of Columbia's government, advocating for local consumers of utilities. As People’s Counsel, Attorney Mattavous-Frye is the statutory advocate representing DC consumers of natural gas, electric, water, and local telephone services. She is serving her fourth four-year term following re-nomination by District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser and unanimous confirmation by the DC Council in March 2024.

"I am honored to be recognized by CESA. OPC values its partnership with CESA as we work together to ensure all communities, particularly the underserved, can equitably benefit from clean energy initiatives. I share this award with my staff at OPC, who are in the trenches advocating, educating, and protecting consumers in the District of Columbia on a daily basis," said Mattavous-Frye.

The Clean Energy Champion Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to expanding clean energy initiatives. Winners are chosen by CESA’s Board of Directors. According to the Board: “Mattavous-Frye structured the Office of the People’s Counsel to make solar and energy efficiency top priority issues. Under her leadership, the Office has become an important advocate for clean energy and for ensuring that it provides tangible benefits to all of DC’s residents.”

Read more about Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Esq.'s impressive career and accomplishments here.