During her opening remarks at the EE Visionary Awards Luncheon at EE Global, Kateri Callahan recognized the importance of companies’ role in driving energy efficiency policy and helping shape the conversation. For this reason, the Alliance honored three leading corporations with EE Visionary Awards.

Whirlpool

Whirlpool’s Vice President of Global Product Organization, Dave Szczupak, accepted the award on behalf of the company. Szczupak, who marked his seventh consecutive year attending EE Global, said, “It’s great to be able to take the award on behalf of the people in the tech centers around the world.” Whirlpool is dedicated to developing efficient appliances, including washers and dishwashers that save more than 75 percent in water and 70 percent in energy. The company has over 7 million square feet of LEED certified facilities across the globe.

Philips Lighting

Philips Lighting Head of Global Public and Government Affairs, Harry Verhaar, accepted the award on behalf of Philips. He was noted by Callahan for being a leader in driving the EU towards the goal of doubling energy productivity, and Verhaar spoke to the achievements of his company. He noted the impressive statistics that would result from doubling EU energy productivity, including the creation of 1.2 million jobs by 2020, improved security of supply, reduction of energy expenditure by one-third and more.

Hitachi

Hitachi Senior Vice President of Energy and Smart City Solutions Consulting, Erica Hauver, accepted the final award of the day on behalf of Hitachi. The company has an ambitious plan to amplify energy efficiency, Environmental Vision 2025. The company uses advanced solutions and IT innovation to connect different infrastructure systems like energy, water and transportation. With rapidly growing urban environments, Hitachi believes quality of life and a smart use of energy starts with social innovation.

The Alliance is hopeful that the innovations of these three companies will serve as inspiration to others around the world.