From cost savings to enhanced energy security, exemplary achievements from eight agencies underscore their vital role in shaping America's energy future.
Federal Energy Management Program
September 24, 2025
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The Federal Energy and Water Management Awards (FEWMA), established in 1981 by the U.S. Department of Energy and codified into law by the Energy Act of 2020, recognize exceptional efforts to improve energy and water efficiency, achieve cost savings, and implement advanced and distributed energy technologies across federal facilities.
On August 7, 2025, at the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C., the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) hosted a ceremony and reception to honor the 2024 FEWMA awardees. These awards recognized 25 distinguished winners—eight career exceptional awards, four program awards, three contracting awards, and ten project awards spanning federal facilities around the globe. The awardees represented eight U.S. agencies, including the Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy, Department of Commerce, Department of Energy, General Services Administration, and Department of Veteran Affairs.
"We know now more than ever the stakes for getting energy right are very high," commented keynote speaker and FEMP Director, Mary Sotos. "I look to all of you as the examples and the inspiration of how we can meet the moment of our energy challenges and opportunities today."
The awards celebrate federal employees and private-sector partners whose exemplary, cost-effective projects significantly reduce energy waste. Through a rigorous evaluation process, these initiatives are chosen for their contributions to America's energy independence, resilience, and security. Their work also helps make energy more affordable, integrates new generation sources, and enhances energy storage capabilities, all while supporting agencies' mission goals.
"Behind each of these projects and programs are dedicated, skilled, knowledgeable, collaborative, creative, and really tough individuals," Sotos said. "And within each of you, I know, is a heart of public service that puts the agency's mission and success at the forefront."
A distinct "Director's Award," determined by the FEMP leadership team outside the standard nomination process, was also presented. This year's Director's Award went to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for its exemplary leadership and commitment to energy management. Despite overseeing the largest energy footprint among civilian federal agencies, the VA has demonstrated exceptional leadership in meeting and surpassing energy efficiency goals. David Wagner, Director of Energy, Environment, and Fleet Program Service for the VA, accepted this honor.
Learn more about the 2024 award winners' achievements and view photos from the event. The call for 2025 FEWMA nominations opens soon. Stay tuned for more details!