Dr Stella Tsani, Associate Professor at the Department of Economics at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), has been named one of three finalists in the prestigious 2025 European Sustainable Energy Awards, under the “Woman in Energy” category.
The awards are part of the upcoming European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW 2025)—the EU’s largest annual event promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency—taking place in Brussels this June. Public voting is now open until 1 June, with no registration required, and can be accessed here.
Dr Tsani’s work highlights the critical role that economic systems and policy play in accelerating the shift to sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions.
“One of our main challenges in the clean energy transition is how to align economic systems with sustainable energy practices,” she said. “My research focuses on developing energy policies that incentivise investment in renewables without disrupting economies or communities.”
Her nomination underscores the growing recognition of interdisciplinary research in tackling climate change and bridging policy with innovation.
A passionate educator, Tsani is particularly committed to empowering women and young people in the clean energy sector—a traditionally male-dominated field.
“Empowering the new generation is at the heart of my work. They are the future leaders, innovators, and decision-makers,” she said.
“By providing guidance, I aim to inspire the next wave of female scientists, policy leaders, and entrepreneurs.”
Her work, which includes youth-focused programs and replicable models of community empowerment, supports the EU’s broader climate ambitions by promoting grassroots innovation and long-term sustainability planning.
The European Sustainable Energy Awards honour individuals and projects making impactful contributions to Europe’s clean energy future. Finalists are selected by a high-level jury across three categories: Innovation, Local Energy Action, and Woman in Energy.
The winners will be announced during the official EUSEW Awards Ceremony on 10 June 2025.
