We are pleased to announce the finalists for the 2025 Energy Networks Awards.

This year we received a record number of nominations, with judges highlighting the exceptional quality of entries across the board. The standard was so high that selecting finalists was a challenging task.

Congratulations to the finalists (unordered):

Industry Innovation Award finalists: 

• AusNet: Live line transmission works 
  AusNet achieved an Australian first by diverting a 500kV transmission circuit into the terminal station while it remained energised. Working with Consolidated Power Projects and Quanta Energized Services, AusNet adapted advanced live line methods to local conditions, avoiding outages during the upgrade and setting a new benchmark for the sector.
• Ausgrid: Energy storage as a service 
  Ausgrid’s program gives households access to community batteries, letting them use locally-stored solar via retail plans. This eases pressure on the grid, cuts costs and supports decarbonisation, showing how networks can enable a smarter, more inclusive energy future.
• Essential Energy: V2G – The journey has begun. 
  Essential Energy worked with with CSIRO, Sigenergy and AUSEV® to launch Australia’s first ready-to-use vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solution. The innovation gives households a new way to get value from their EV while helping create a smarter, more reliable and sustainable energy system.
• Endeavour Energy (NSW): Flying towards safety: A new era in bushfire risk and asset management
  By replacing helicopters with agile drone operations, Endeavour Energy is transforming bushfire risk management and asset inspection. Using AI analysis, the program enables teams to review up to 1,000 poles a day and detect faults early, while setting a new benchmark for safety, efficiency and sustainability in the energy sector.

Women in Networks Award finalists:

• Allison Purnell-Sullivan – SA Power Networks
  Allison leads SA Power Networks’ sustainability strategy, ESG reporting, and annual Sustainability Report. She has been instrumental in embedding sustainability across one of Australia’s largest distribution networks, driving the energy transition while ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable power for South Australians.
• Carla Basden – Western Power
  Carla is a highly respected energy leader, currently driving major customer decarbonisation and renewable network expansion at Western Power. Known for her collaborative and innovative approach, she delivers strategic, commercial outcomes while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion across the industry.
• Cathryn McDonald – SA Power Networks
  Cathryn applies engineering expertise to optimise the grid and support Australia’s energy transition. Through roles in future networks and real-time operations, she has developed innovative strategies and technologies that enhance customer value and enable smarter management of distributed energy resources.
• Fatima Bazzi – Ausgrid
  Fatima is a transformative leader, driving operational excellence, digital transformation, and cultural change across the energy sector. As Head of Customer Connections, she delivers strategic outcomes while championing diversity, equity, and STEM advocacy, making her a trusted advisor and inspirational role model for future leaders.

Individual Contribution Award finalists:

• Peter Iancov, Jemena / Zinfra
  Mr Iancov is Managing Director of Zinfra, leading 2,800 staff delivering essential electricity and gas infrastructure. He is also Chief Strategy Officer at Jemena and serves on several boards, reflecting his strong commitment to energy security and community engagement.
• Hadi Lomei, Essential Energy
  Hadi Lomei is an electrical engineer specialising in power system modelling and renewable integration. With two PhDs, he has advanced the company’s processes for connecting renewables and contributed to sector education through the University of Wollongong.
  
• Lucy Holder, AusNet
  Lucy Holder leads AusNet’s Research & Engagement team and is recognised for her collaborative approach, professionalism, and lasting impact across the organisation and industry.

Consumer Engagement Award finalists:

• Empowering and energising community: The Wanaruah/Wonnarua Community Energy Strategy, Ausgrid
  In 2024, Ausgrid partnered with Indigenous Energy Australia and the Wanaruah/Wonnarua people to create a Community Energy Strategy that guides respectful, community-led energy development. Endorsed by local Aboriginal organisations, the strategy is already shaping renewable planning, delivering social, cultural, and environmental benefits, and setting a benchmark for First Nations engagement in Australia’s energy sector.
• ElectriFAIRcation, AusNet
  ElectriFAIRcation is AusNet’s flagship program helping vulnerable communities transition to all-electric homes, combining solar, efficient appliances, and energy upgrades. By embedding community voices and partnering locally, the initiative advances energy equity, improves customer literacy, and provides valuable insights to guide future network planning.
• 2024 Far West NSW Blackout Response, Essential Energy
  The 2024 Far West NSW Blackout left over 12,000 customers without power, but Essential Energy’s rapid response which mobilised staff, generators, and additional local generation, restored supply under challenging conditions. Their coordinated effort, from government engagement to clear customer communications, set a strong example of crisis management and community support.

We also extend sincere thanks to everyone who submitted a nomination. The breadth of projects and achievements showcased is a reminder of the innovation, dedication and impact within our industry.

We wish all finalists the very best of luck and look forward to celebrating with you at the Awards Dinner, where we’ll come together to recognise the outstanding contributions of our sector.