German Energy Agency Opens Applications for 2026 Energy Award
The competition recognizes companies implementing innovative technologies and integrated strategies to achieve decarbonization.
The German Energy Agency, known as dena, has opened applications for its 2026 Energy Award, marking the 20th anniversary of the competition.
Formerly known as the Energy Efficiency Award, the program has been rebranded as the dena Energy Award – efficiency and climate action. The update reflects a shift toward holistic decarbonization efforts and entrepreneurial innovation within the global energy transition.
The competition is open to companies that demonstrate measurable energy savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions or scalable blueprints for climate protection. Since its inception in 2007, the program has received submissions from more than 1,700 companies, with 78 projects receiving top honors.
The 2026 awards feature three primary categories and one audience-selected prize:
- Move forward!: This category focuses on integrated strategies and concrete projects aimed at achieving climate neutrality.
- Go smart!: This category recognizes the use of digital technology and advanced measurement systems to improve energy efficiency.
- Act together!: This category honors cooperative projects, including sustainable infrastructure and joint ventures that drive climate action.
- Pioneer: An audience award specifically for small and medium enterprises that successfully navigate energy transition challenges despite limited resources.
An independent panel of judges comprising representatives from academia, media and industry will select the winners. The honorees will be announced Nov. 9, 2026, during the dena Kongress in Berlin.
The application period remains open through June 5, 2026. Interested organizations can submit their projects through the official competition portal.
About the Author
Jesse Jacobs is Assistant Editor of EPOnline.com.
