Award category

Leadership

Year released

2019

Under the leadership of Richard J. Mark, Ameren Illinois’ energy efficiency program has been recognized as one of the best in the country — rated #12 by ACEEE, an independent energy efficiency organization. Since Mark took the helm in 2012, Ameren Illinois has helped customers reduce energy usage by millions of megawatt-hours, saving millions.

The vision and leadership of Mark and his team have helped shape and secure progressive energy legislation and regulatory policy in the state of Illinois. Whether he’s negotiating with lawmakers, donating high-efficiency air conditioners to customers in need, or championing energy efficiency in underserved communities, Mark’s vision has made energy efficiency more accessible to customers and communities served by Ameren Illinois.

Award category

Leadership

Year released

2018

Rick Snyder became Michigan’s 48th governor when he was sworn into office on Jan. 1, 2011. In energy policy, his “no regrets” policy built on four key attributes: adaptability, reliability, affordability, and protection of the environment. Energy waste reduction has been a cornerstone of his energy policy, as it meets all four of those objectives. His leadership has brought about a number of advances, including championing the legislation that allowed Detroit to do the largest LED streetlighting conversion in the country and creating the annual Governor’s Energy Excellence Awards to spotlight leadership in the area. Michigan’s comprehensive 2016 energy reform legislation, which included increased incentives for and requirements for energy waste reduction programs, gained strong bi-partisan support, securing support two-thirds of the legislators in both chambers.

Award category

Leadership

Year released

2018

A prolific entrepreneur, Louis E. James has more than 40 years of experience in managing sales, marketing, operations, personnel and merchandising for both start-up and established retail, franchise, manufacturing, and service companies. He has served as a senior executive for the past thirty years and has owned many successful business ventures. One of James’ most successful ventures in the Midwest, MCLJASCO, Inc. provides a diverse range of supply chain management services, quality and containment, including inventory management and steel manufacturing. Solutions for Energy Efficient Logistics (SEEL) is the energy division of MCLJASCO, that provides services within the energy efficiency space. Through SEEL, James promotes positive environmental change by administering energy management programs, on behalf of its clients.