Greek academic driving country’s energy transition wins 2025 European Sustainable Energy Awards

Greek academic Dr. Stella Tsani has won the 2025 European Sustainable Energy Award in the Woman in Energy category, rewarding her efforts to bridge research and action around energy and the environment, while investing heavily in the next generation of energy professionals, especially young women. 

Stella came first in an online public vote. She received the award at the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) awards ceremony on 10 June in Brussels.

Based at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Stella combines rigorous academic work in the clean energy transition with high-level policy engagement, contributing to practical advances by shaping evidence-based policy recommendations.

At the same time, she is working hard to mentor young scientists: 'They are the future leaders, innovators, and decision-makers who will carry forward the challenges and opportunities of the clean energy transition… I aim to inspire the next wave of female scientists, policy leaders, and entrepreneurs in the clean energy sector,' she says.

Stella Tsani was one of three finalists shortlisted for the European Sustainable Energy Awards 2025 ​(EUSEW Awards) in the Woman in Energy category. The award recognises women who lead outstanding activities that, if replicated, help to advance the clean energy transition in Europe. Particular attention is placed on efforts to drive the gender mainstreaming agenda and support equality and equal opportunities in the energy sector. 

The other finalists were Sophie Loots from Belgium, and Carmen Sánchez-Guevara from Spain. Sophie is a champion of grassroots energy cooperatives in Flanders. Carmen is driving efforts to tackle the critical issue of summer energy poverty.

The European Sustainable Energy Awards recognise outstanding individuals and projects for their innovation and efforts in energy efficiency and renewables. The nine finalists were selected by a high-level jury in three categories –   Innovation, Local Energy Action, and Woman in Energy – before being submitted to an online public vote. ​ 

EUSEW 2025

European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW), the​ biggest annual event dedicated to renewables and efficient energy use in Europe, takes place on 10-12 June under the theme of ‘Powering a fair and competitive green transition’. The event brings together public authorities, industry, NGOs and consumers to promote initiatives accelerating decarbonisation through green technologies and solutions towards a competitive, clean and fair energy transition for both consumers and businesses.

For interview requests with the EUSEW Awards winners or additional media information, please contact ​ mediaeusew [dot] eu (media[at]eusew[dot]eu).