Young Energy Leader Award 2025
Young Energy Leader Award 2025
Last week, the Recharge Earth Young Energy Leader Pitch Day, powered by Eneco, took place at Eneco World in Rotterdam. During this event, talented students presented their innovative ideas for the energy transition. From smart heat pumps to circular solutions, the jury was impressed by the creativity, vision, and drive of these young professionals.
The six finalists sent a powerful message with their ideas: the next generation is ready to shape the future of energy. At Recharge Earth 2025, they competed once again for the Young Energy Leader Award 2025.
Winners of the Young Energy Leader Award 2025
We are proud to congratulate Gijs van Wijk (Hogeschool Rotterdam) and Bas van Berkel (TU Delft), the winners of the Young Energy Leader Award 2025 - powered by Eneco.
Gijs van Wijk explored the potential of high-temperature heat pumps. His work demonstrates that this technology not only enables significant CO₂ reductions but can also save millions of euros in costs.
Bas van Berkel showed how smart control and maintenance of wind farms can lead to higher energy output and lower costs. In doing so, he makes a tangible contribution to more efficient sustainable energy production.
This award highlights the importance of ensuring that young talents do not let their ideas gather dust, but instead translate them into impactful solutions that accelerate the energy transition.
The festive award ceremony took place on the main stage of Recharge Earth. Jury chairman Eric Wiebes and Dick Velings, representing sponsor Eneco, presented the awards to the proud winners.
We thank Eneco for hosting this inspiring day and providing a platform for young visionaries shaping our energy future. Our thanks also go to all students, jury members, and coordinators who made this award possible.