COLLINSVILLE, IL (April 12, 2021) – Ameren Illinois was recently recognized by the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) as part of their 17th annual Inspiring Efficiency Awards. The company received the 2021 Education Award for its Energy Efficiency Internship Program.
The Inspiring Efficiency Awards recognize individuals and businesses that have shown exemplary leadership in advancing energy efficiency across the Midwest. Winners were recognized during a virtual awards ceremony on March 23.
“This year’s Inspiring Efficiency Award winners have proven to be champions of energy efficiency within their communities, especially in these times of challenge and uncertainty,” said MEEA Executive Director Stacey Paradis. “The Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance is proud to recognize and honor the commitment of Ameren Illinois in helping to prepare young people for careers in energy efficiency.”
During the summer of 2020, Ameren Illinois sponsored an internship program that helped connect 15 individuals to internships in the energy efficiency space. Interns participated in hands-on training and industry-related education, learned about employment opportunities, received mentorship from industry professionals, and gained skills that will help them secure a full-time position in the energy efficiency sector. Ameren Illinois also awarded six staffing grants to five recipients, organizations, community-based organizations, or Program Allies to assist the organizations with their back office functions and, potentially, expand their business.
"During a time when many organizations were scaling back on their internship programs, we found a way to offer a high-quality virtual learning experience for students," said Kristol Simms, Director of Energy Efficiency Strategy and Innovation for Ameren Illinois. "Through this program, we are furthering our commitment to building a more diverse energy efficiency workforce in the state of Illinois. We're proud that our accomplishments, and those of our partners, have been recognized by MEEA."
The Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Internship Program started in 2018. Since then, the company has provided 70 internships to graduating high school students and professionals looking to change careers. Five of the interns have found full-time employment in the field of energy efficiency and staffing grants have helped support six additional full-time positions.
More information about MEEA and the Inspiring Efficiency Awards winners is available at: meeaconference.org/inspiring-efficiency-awards.
About the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
The Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) is a collaborative network advancing energy efficiency in the Midwest for sustainable economic development and environmental stewardship across 13 states. MEEA is the Midwest’s key proponent and resource for energy efficiency policy, helping to educate and advise a diverse range of stakeholders on ways to pursue a cost-effective, energy-efficient agenda. Through partnerships, programs and a dynamic annual conference, we curate a forward-thinking conversation to realize the economic and environmental benefits of energy efficiency. www.mwalliance.org.
About Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and more than 800,000 natural gas customers in Illinois. Our mission is to power the quality of life. Our service territory covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com, find us on Twitter @AmerenIllinois or Facebook.com/AmerenIllinois.