EU names finalists for 2026 European Sustainable Energy Awards, opens public vote

Brussels, Belgium. The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy announced the finalists for the 2026 European Sustainable Energy Awards and opened public voting for the best clean energy projects and leaders across Europe. The online vote runs until May 31, 2026.

Finalists and award scope

Nine finalists have been shortlisted across three categories, recognising innovation in energy efficiency and renewable energy. The awards are part of the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) and highlight initiatives advancing the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system.

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Voting and announcement timeline

Winners will be selected through an online public vote that is now open and will run until May 31, 2026. The results will be revealed during the EUSEW Awards Ceremony in Brussels on June 9, 2026.

Cyprus and the 2026 ceremony

The 2026 edition carries added significance for Cyprus, as the country holds the EU presidency, with Cypriot artists expected to participate in the Brussels ceremony. Organisers said they hope the announcement will encourage greater participation from Cypriots in European energy initiatives.

SMEs Driving Energy Efficiency category

The SMEs Driving Energy Efficiency category recognises small and medium sized enterprises that have developed innovative business or financing models to improve energy efficiency. Finalists include Ener2Crowd, an Italian platform mobilising citizen investment for energy efficiency projects in buildings and industry, and Water Horizon, a French company offering low carbon cooling solutions using mobile battery technology to capture and reuse waste heat.

Will you vote online for the 2026 European Sustainable Energy Awards before the May 31, 2026 deadline?