CATEGORIES

Project/Team Awards 

SUBMISSION FORMAT

All entries must be submitted online via this website and include:

  • A completed submission addressing the judging criteria (see below).
  • An Executive Summary (150 words max) outlining the project.
  • The Nomination Form signed by the nominating Member’s CEO (uploaded as a PDF). Download the Nomination Form here.
  • Up to five supporting items, such as photos, infographics, charts, video links, testimonials, or reports.
  • Word limits apply to all core response fields and must be strictly observed.

Recognising big ideas shaping the future of energy in Australia

The Excellence in Network Innovation Award celebrates bold thinking and practical solutions transforming how energy networks operate, serve customers, and drive the transition to net zero.

The award recognises the people and projects creating real impact. This includes improving reliability, sustainability, affordability or internal agility. Your entry should show how your unique innovation is shaping the energy system of the future, from new technologies and digital tools, to fresh business models and customer-centric solutions.

Projects may relate to asset management, distributed energy resources, network operations, environmental leadership, customer engagement, or cross-sector collaboration. Both pilot projects and implemented solutions are eligible, provided measurable outcomes are demonstrated.

Why Enter?

  • Showcase your organisation’s commitment to innovation
  • Highlight the people, partnerships, and practices behind your success
  • Be recognised by your peers at the ENA Excellence in Energy Awards Dinner in Sydney
  • Win two complimentary registrations to the 2028 Energy Networks Conference + Exhibition

Award eligibility

To be eligible for this award, entries must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a regulated electricity or gas network that is a full financial member of Energy Networks Australia (ENA) between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
  • Member organisations may nominate themselves or another ENA full member.
  • Collaborative projects with partners are eligible but must be led by an ENA full member.
  • Members can submit a maximum of two entries per category.
  • Projects previously submitted may be resubmitted only if substantial enhancements or new outcomes can be clearly demonstrated.
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Excellence in Network Innovation

Submissions will be evaluated against the following criteria. Each is individually scored and weighted to ensure a fair and balanced assessment of every nominee.

Assessment area What to address
(Direction for submission)		 What we are looking for
(Direction for judging)		 Weighting
1. Strategic Rationale & Innovation Need Explain the issue or opportunity the project addressed and its strategic relevance. Why the innovation was necessary; what problem it solved 13%
2. Innovation Approach & Design Describe the development process, stakeholder engagement and implementation. How the innovation was developed; partnerships, stakeholder input and execution 18%
3. Outcomes & Consumer Impact Demonstrate the results of the project, how success was measured and the benefits delivered. What has changed; measurable outcomes; consumer or market benefits 23%
4. Innovation Leadership & Culture Show how the project built organisational innovation capacity, agility and leadership involvement. Role in building innovation capability, agility, internal learning and cultural shift 18%
5. Scalability & Sector Influence Detail the potential for replication, knowledge sharing and industry-wide influence. Potential to scale, replicate or influence the broader energy sector 18%
6. Inclusion & Social Impact Demonstrate how this project has contributed to creating positive social outcomes, including advancing diversity and inclusion, strengthening communities, or delivering broader public benefit. How the project has created positive social outcomes 10%
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Recognising leadership in putting consumers at the heart of the energy transition.

The Excellence in Consumer Engagement and Communications Award celebrates a team that has gone above and beyond in connecting with the community. These teams are actively engaging in meaningful, measurable and impactful ways.

As Australia moves rapidly toward a net zero emissions energy future, energy networks play a critical role in earning consumer trust.

Whether it's an outstanding response to an incident, a planned project or a campaign, this award recognises initiatives that have seen effective communication or clever engagement empower consumers.

Why enter?

  • Showcase your commitment to putting consumers first
  • Share your innovation and influence across the sector
  • Be recognised by your peers at the ENA Excellence in Energy Awards Dinner in Sydney
  • Win two complimentary registrations to the 2028 Energy Networks Conference + Exhibition

Award eligibility

To be eligible for this award, entries must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a regulated electricity or gas network that is a full financial member of Energy Networks Australia (ENA) between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
  • Member organisations may nominate themselves or another ENA full member .
  • Collaborative projects with partners are eligible but must be led by an ENA full member.
  • Members can submit a maximum of two entries per category.
  • Projects previously submitted may be resubmitted only if substantial enhancements or new outcomes can be clearly demonstrated.
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Excellence in Consumer Engagement or Communications

Submissions will be evaluated against the following criteria. Each is individually scored and weighted to ensure a fair and balanced assessment of every nominee.

Assessment area What to address
(Direction for submission)		 What we are looking for
(Direction for Judging)		 Weighting
1. Strategic Alignment & Intent Why the initiative was undertaken; alignment with internal or external priorities. Why the communication or engagement was undertaken and how it fits into broader strategy 13%
2. Approach to Communication / Engagement How the communications or engagement was designed and implemented; inclusivity, accessibility and innovation. How the communication or engagement was designed and executed 23%
3. Consumer Impact & Effectiveness Outcomes achieved, supported by evidence; feedback mechanisms; measurable success. Evidence of outcomes and benefits for consumers 28%
4. Leadership & Organisational Change Role of leadership and senior decision-makers; impact on organisational culture and engagement standards. Senior involvement and internal cultural shift 13%
5. Scalability & Industry Impact Relevance beyond the project; potential for adoption across the network sector. Relevance and transferability to the broader energy network sector 13%
6. Inclusion & Social Impact How this project has contributed to creating positive social outcomes, including advancing diversity and inclusion, strengthening communities, or delivering broader public benefit. How the project has created positive social outcomes 10%

Recognising leadership among the people behind the energy transition.

The Outstanding People and Culture Initiative Award celebrates exceptional commitment to building an engaged, inclusive and high-performing workplace. As Australia's energy system undergoes its most significant transformation in generations, the success of the transition depends on attracting, developing and retaining the skilled people who will deliver it.

This award recognises projects that have strengthened organisational culture, empowered employees and created a workplace where people can thrive. Examples include leadership development, wellbeing programs, diversity and inclusion initiatives, workforce capability, employee engagement or cultural change.

Why Enter?

  • Showcase your commitment to putting consumers first
  • Share your innovation and influence across the sector
  • Be recognised by your peers at the ENA Excellence in Energy Awards Dinner in Sydney
  • Win two complimentary registrations to the 2028 Energy Networks Conference + Exhibition
Award eligibility

To be eligible for this award, entries must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a regulated electricity or gas network that is a full financial member of Energy Networks Australia (ENA) between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
  • Member organisations may nominate themselves or another ENA full member .
  • Collaborative projects with partners are eligible but must be led by an ENA full member.
  • Members can submit a maximum of two entries per category.
  • Projects previously submitted may be resubmitted only if substantial enhancements or new outcomes can be clearly demonstrated.
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Outstanding People and Culture Initiative (new)

Submissions will be evaluated against the following criteria. Each is individually scored and weighted to ensure a fair and balanced assessment of every nominee.

Assessment area What to address
(Direction for submission)		 What we are looking for
(Direction for Judging)		 Weighting
1. Strategic Alignment & Vision Why the initiative was undertaken; alignment with organisational strategy, workforce priorities or business challenges. Why the initiative was needed and how it supports organisational success and the energy transition. 13%
2. Initiative Design & Implementation How the initiative was developed and delivered; employee involvement; innovation; inclusivity and accessibility. A well-designed initiative that demonstrates thoughtful planning, effective execution and engagement with employees. 23%
3. Workforce Impact & Outcomes Evidence of measurable outcomes, such as improvements in engagement, wellbeing, capability, retention, attraction, safety, diversity or culture. Include feedback and supporting data where possible. Demonstrated positive outcomes and lasting benefits for employees and the organisation. 28%
4. Leadership & Culture The role of leaders in championing the initiative; how it has influenced organisational culture, behaviours or ways of working. Visible leadership commitment and evidence of meaningful cultural change. 13%
5. Sustainability & Industry Impact How the initiative will be sustained over time; potential to be scaled or adopted across the energy network sector. Long-term value, sustainability and relevance beyond a single project or organisation. 13%
6. Inclusion & Social Value Demonstrate how the initiative has fostered an inclusive workplace, supported diversity, strengthened employee wellbeing, or contributed to broader positive social outcomes. Evidence that the initiative has created a more inclusive, supportive and equitable workplace with wider organisational or community benefit. 10%

To be awarded every two years at the Energy Networks Conference Dinner.

2026 WINNER: CitiPower, Powercor & United Energy (presented on 18 March at the EN26 Gala Dinner).
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Individual Awards 

SUBMISSION FORMAT

All entries must be submitted online via this website and include:

  • A short nominee bio (150 words max) and headshot for communications purposes.
  • A completed submission aligned to the judging criteria (see below)
  • Up to five optional multimedia uploads (images, testimonials, video links)
  • The Nomination Form signed by the nominating Member’s CEO (uploaded as a PDF). Download the Nomination Form here.
  • Word limits apply to all core response fields and must be strictly observed.

Celebrating women shaping the future of Australia’s energy networks.

The Female Trailblazer of the Year Award recognises the outstanding contributions of women across all levels and disciplines within the energy sector. From seasoned executives to rising STEM stars, this award honours individuals who are breaking new ground. Our nominees are inspiring others and leading the charge toward a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable industry.

Entries may be leaders of bold initiatives, champions of diversity and inclusion, or key contributors to Australia's net zero transition. This is an opportunity to recognise those who are not only excelling in their roles but creating a legacy for future generations of women in energy.

Why Enter?

  • Celebrate exceptional women making a measurable difference in energy networks
  • Recognise leadership, innovation, mentorship, and industry advocacy
  • Gain national exposure and sector-wide recognition
  • Be honoured at the ENA Excellence in Energy Awards Dinner in Sydney
  • Win complimentary registration to the 2028 Energy Networks Conference + Exhibition

Who Can Be Nominated?

This award is open to individuals employed by regulated electricity or gas networks that are full financial members of Energy Networks Australia (ENA).

Nominations can be submitted by the nominee’s own organisation or by another ENA member. Nominees may be recognised in one of the following categories:

  • Seasoned Leader
  • Emerging Leader
  • STEM Excellence

Award eligibility

To be eligible for this Award, entries must meet the following criteria:

  • Nominees must be employees of a fully financial ENA member organisation between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. 
  • Nominations must be submitted by a fully financial ENA member organisation (self-nomination or nomination of another member permitted).
  • Members can submit a maximum of two entries per category. 
  • Nominees from all listed categories—Seasoned Leader, Emerging Leader, and Individual Excelling in STEM—are eligible for nomination.
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Female Trailblazer of the Year

Submissions will be evaluated against the following criteria. Each is individually scored and weighted to ensure a fair and balanced assessment of every nominee.

Assessment area What to address
(Direction for submission)		 What we are looking for
(Direction for Judging)		 Weighting
1. Leadership & Influence Describe how the nominee demonstrates leadership within their organisation or the wider sector. Include examples of mentoring, team-building, or industry influence. Demonstrates strategic leadership, mentoring, and influence across the organisation and industry. 25%
2. Innovation & Impact Show how the nominee has led or contributed to innovative initiatives, projects, or ways of working. Highlight measurable or visible results. Leads or contributes to groundbreaking initiatives or projects with tangible outcomes. 25%
3. Contribution to a Sustainable Future Outline the nominee's role in advancing sustainability or Australia's transition to net zero. This could include emissions reduction, strategy, or advocacy. Active role in driving initiatives aligned with sustainability or the energy transition. 20%
4. Diversity & Inclusion Advocacy Demonstrate the nominee's commitment to promoting equity, mentoring underrepresented groups, or leading inclusion initiatives that shape workplace culture. Champions equality, mentors others, or leads cultural change efforts within the business or sector. 20%
5. Community & Customer Engagement Provide examples of how the nominee has engaged with the public, customers, or stakeholders to build trust or improve outcomes outside the organisation. Builds stronger industry relationships through external collaboration, education or engagement. 10%

Recognising the next generation of leaders driving Australia's energy transition.

The “One to Watch” recognises an outstanding early-career professional who is already making a meaningful contribution to Australia's energy network sector. Whether through innovation, leadership, technical excellence, collaboration or a commitment to their community, this award celebrates individuals whose passion and potential are helping shape the future of the industry.

This award recognises emerging professionals who are not only excelling in their current role, but demonstrating the curiosity, initiative and leadership that will define the industry's future. Whether an apprentice, graduate, technical specialist or emerging leader, this award celebrates those who are already making an impact and inspiring confidence in what comes next.

The award winner for this category will be judged by their peers – so please get voting!

Why Enter?

  • Celebrate a rising star in energy networks Recognise passion, potential and skill in our sectors emerging workforce
  • Gain national exposure and sector-wide recognition
  • Be honoured at the ENA Excellence in Energy Awards Dinner in Sydney
  • Win complimentary registration to the 2028 Energy Networks Conference + Exhibition

Who Can Be Nominated?

This award is open to individuals employed by regulated electricity or gas networks that are full financial members of Energy Networks Australia (ENA).

Nominations can be submitted by the nominee’s own organisation or by another ENA member.

Award eligibility

To be eligible for this Award, entries must meet the following criteria:

  • Nominees must be employees of a fully financial ENA member organisation between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. 
  • Nominations must be submitted by a fully financial ENA member organisation (self-nomination or nomination of another member permitted). 
  • Members can submit a maximum of two entries per category.
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The "One to Watch” (new)

Submissions will be evaluated against the following criteria. Each is individually scored and weighted to ensure a fair and balanced assessment of every nominee.

Assessment area What to address
(Direction for submission)		 What we are looking for
(Direction for Judging)		 Weighting
1. Initiative & Potential Describe how the nominee has demonstrated initiative, ownership and a commitment to learning in the early stages of their career. Highlight examples where they have gone above and beyond expectations. Demonstrates exceptional potential, initiative and a proactive approach to personal and professional growth. 25%
2. Contribution & Impact Show how the nominee has contributed to projects, teams or initiatives that have delivered measurable or meaningful outcomes for their organisation or the sector. Makes a tangible contribution and delivers outcomes beyond what would typically be expected at their career stage. 25%
3. Innovation & Future Focus Outline how the nominee has introduced new ideas, embraced innovation or contributed to solving challenges that support the future of the energy sector. Demonstrates curiosity, innovation and a forward-thinking mindset that will help shape the future of the industry. 20%
4. Collaboration & Leadership Describe how the nominee has built positive relationships, supported colleagues or demonstrated emerging leadership, regardless of formal position. Positively influences others through collaboration, teamwork and emerging leadership qualities. 20%
5. Commitment to the Industry & Community Provide examples of how the nominee has contributed beyond their day-to-day role through professional development, industry participation, mentoring, volunteering or community engagement. Shows a genuine commitment to the energy sector, continuous learning and making a positive contribution beyond their immediate responsibilities. 10%

Celebrating the individuals powering innovation, leadership, and impact across Australia’s energy networks.

The Outstanding Individual Contribution Award recognises outstanding achievements by employees at any level within Energy Networks Australia (ENA) member organisations. Whether it's a field supervisor improving safety outcomes, a technical specialist driving new efficiencies, or a senior leader guiding strategic transformation, this award honours those whose individual efforts are making a real difference.

This award is designed to spotlight those whose initiative, impact, and influence have advanced their organisation and the industry. This can be across areas such as operations, customer engagement, sustainability, engineering, and organisational leadership.

Why Enter?

  • Shine a spotlight on individuals making an extraordinary difference
  • Celebrate excellence across frontline, technical, and leadership roles
  • Be recognised at the ENA Excellence in Energy Awards Dinner in Sydney
  • Win complimentary registration to the 2028 Energy Networks Conference + Exhibition Inspire peers and help shape a high-performing, values-driven sector

Who Can Be Nominated?

This award is open to individuals employed by regulated electricity or gas networks that are full financial members of Energy Networks Australia (ENA). Nominees may be from any career level, including:

  • Executives and senior leaders
  • Engineers and technical specialists
  • Operational or field supervisors
  • Project and program managers
Award eligibility

To be eligible for this Award, entries must meet the following criteria:

  • Nominees must be employees of a fully financial ENA member organisation between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. 
  • Nominations must be submitted by a fully financial ENA member organisation (self-nomination or nomination of another member permitted).
  • Members can submit a maximum of two entries per category. 
  • Nominees from all listed categories—Seasoned Leader, Emerging Leader, and Individual Excelling in STEM—are eligible for nomination.
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Process or clear your selections to enable the item buttons.

Outstanding Individual Contribution

Submissions will be evaluated against the following criteria. Each is individually scored and weighted to ensure a fair and balanced assessment of every nominee.

Assessment area What to address
(Direction for submission)		 What we are looking for
(Direction for Judging)		 Weighting
1. Contribution & Initiative What has the nominee done? What was their role in delivering or leading the contribution? Detail the individual's actions, projects, or innovations in their field or role. 30%
2. Impact & Outcomes What changed as a result? How was the impact measured or observed? Describe the measurable outcomes for the organisation, customers, or the broader industry. 30%
3. Leadership & Influence How has the nominee inspired, led, or influenced others? (Formal or informal leadership) Show how the nominee led, inspired, or influenced others - formally or informally. 15%
4. Sector & Community Contribution Has the nominee supported broader engagement across teams, industry, or community? Have they contributed to positive social outcomes? This can include enhanced inclusion, equity and diversity. Highlight their engagement across teams, departments, or with the community and industry. 15%
5. Growth & Development What learning, growth, or progression has the nominee demonstrated through their contribution? Describe their personal or professional development and how they've contributed to organisational growth. 10%