dena Energy Award

Frequently Asked Questions about the dena Energy Award

• Why has the award been renamed?

  To mark its 20th anniversary, the award has been further developed and continues under the new name dena Energy Award – efficiency and climate action. 

  The new name places a stronger emphasis on the importance of energy efficiency, entrepreneurial innovation, and comprehensive approaches to decarbonisation. 

  At the same time, the new title makes it clearer who is behind the award: the connection to dena becomes more visible without changing the award’s core objectives. 

• How does the application process work?

  After registering, private and public companies can submit their projects via the online application form in one of the three competition categories until June 5, 2026. 

  Once the application phase has closed, dena will review all submissions. If necessary, applicants may be contacted to provide additional technical information. 

  At the beginning of September 2026, an expert jury will select the nominated projects. Nominees will be informed promptly and publicly announced. 

• Who can apply?

  The competition is open to all private and public companies worldwide, regardless of industry or size. 

  Companies with majority public ownership are also eligible, provided they are legally established and economically active. 

  Joint applications are permitted. Conditions for particiipation. Terms and conditions

• How do I submit a project?

  Applications must be submitted via the online application form [LINK]. 

  After registering, you can create one or more applications, save your progress, and complete them at a later stage. 

  Please select the category that best fits your project. If necessary, dena can assist with assigning the appropriate category. 

• Can I submit more than one project?

  Yes, multiple projects or concepts can be submitted, provided they are clearly distinguishable in terms of content and organisation. 

  It is not permitted to submit the same project multiple times (e.g. identical measures implemented at different locations). 

• What information is required for the application?

  The application includes information on: 

  • the company  

  • the implementation of the project  

  • the achieved results and savings  

  Please also indicate any involved service providers or project partners. 

• How will my data be handled?

  All submitted data will be treated confidentially and will only be accessible to dena and the jury. 

  Project information will only be published with the applicant’s prior consent. 

  With your consent, dena may also use your contact details to inform you about relevant topics and events. 

• Are there any costs involved?

  Participation in the dena Energy Award is free of charge. 

  Any internal costs incurred by the company (e.g. personnel expenses or travel costs for the award ceremony) must be borne by the participants themselves. 

• How does the jury selects the winners and when are they announced?

  An independent jury of experts from politics, business, academia, and the media will select the nominees and winners in early September 2026. In addition, three projects will be nominated for the SME special prize. 

  The technical evaluation of submitted and approved applications is based on uniform evaluation criteria. The evaluation criteria are: relative energy savings, greenhouse gas reductions, cost-effectiveness and financing, innovation, and transferability. The jury’s decision is final. 

  Nominees will be informed in writing and invited to the dena Congress. All applicants will also be notified of the outcome. 

  The winners will be announced at the award ceremony on November 9, 2026. 

  The SME special prize will be determined by a public vote. Online voting begins approximately three weeks before the award ceremony. 

• Why should a company participate?

  The dena Energy Award is a cross-sector, widely recognized distinction for energy efficiency, innovation, and climate action. 

  Nominated projects benefit from increased public visibility and media attention. Companies can also use the award label for their own communication. 

  In addition, all applications are reviewed by experts. Selected projects are presented as “Good Practice” examples on the website.