A Victorian solar entrepreneur, a regional energy collective, and a trailblazing First Nations wind farm partnership have been named among the winners of the 2025 Clean Energy Council Awards, recognising technical innovation, inclusion and impact across the renewables sector.
Outstanding Contribution to Clean Energy: Andy McCarthy, CEP.Energy
Andy McCarthy, now Chief Strategy Officer at CEP.Energy, was recognised for decades of leadership in solar deployment and advocacy. Starting in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley, McCarthy built a respected solar business and became a prominent industry voice on quality, customer care and mental health. His public sharing of personal challenges has prompted broader conversations around wellbeing in the energy workforce.
Collaboration Award: Wimmera Southern Mallee Energy Collaboration
The Wimmera Southern Mallee Energy Collaboration was commended for its multi-stakeholder coordination of regional energy transition efforts. The partnership – led by WSM Development and backed by The Energy Charter – has formalised commitments around emergency management, community engagement and youth workforce pathways. Judges noted the practical structure and early project delivery across a traditionally fragmented stakeholder environment.
Community Value and Impact: Potentia Energy – Girgarre Solar Farm
Potentia Energy’s work on the Girgarre Solar Farm in Victoria demonstrated a replicable model for community-led renewable development. Deep collaboration with local residents enabled social licence, benefit-sharing and economic outcomes aligned with community aspirations. Cultural respect and inclusion were integral to project delivery and ongoing governance.
Equity, Inclusion and Diversity: Blackrock Industries, Fluence and AGL
The award recognised a unique partnership supporting incarcerated First Nations men into renewable energy jobs. Through employment on the Lidell Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) – the world’s largest – the initiative provided training, purpose and long-term employment pathways. “It gave them hope… dignity, purpose and belonging,” said the Clean Energy Council.
First Nations Engagement and Participation: First Nations Bailai, Gurang, Gooreng Gooreng and Taribelang Bunda People Development Corporation and European Energy Australia
The Aldoga Wind Farm partnership was lauded for embedding Traditional Owner leadership and shared equity from inception. The project reflects principles of cultural respect, self-determination and long-term benefit-sharing, with First Nations values informing every phase.
Media Award: Caitlin Fitzsimmons, SMH/The Age
Caitlin Fitzsimmons was awarded for her explanatory features debunking myths and contextualising the energy transition. Her work used real-world case studies and graphics to demystify complex topics, reaching tens of thousands through print and online channels.
Finalists across all categories included efforts to reform grid connection rules, increase workforce diversity, and deepen regional engagement through co-designed infrastructure and communications strategies.