Kristol Simms, Vice President, Ameren Illinois accepts award from Dr. E'Lois Thomas, MEEA Board Chair and SEEL President.
CHICAGO (Feb. 8, 2024) – Kristol Simms, Vice President, Clean Energy Transition, Economic, Community, and Business Development for Ameren Illinois, was recognized by the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) as part of its 20th Annual Inspiring Efficiency Awards, earlier this month.
The Inspiring Efficiency Awards recognize individuals and businesses that have shown exemplary work toward advancing energy efficiency across the Midwest. Specifically, the Chair’s Award is presented to the organization or individual who has provided exemplary leadership and support to MEEA throughout the organization’s history.
“Kristol has truly left her mark here at the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance. We are thankful for her leadership during her time as MEEA’s Board Chair and are proud to recognize Kristol for her ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful energy efficiency solutions to communities with the greatest need,” said MEEA Executive Director Paige Knutsen. “We know Kristol will continue to be a great leader in our industry and partner to MEEA.”
In her tenure on the MEEA Board, Simms was instrumental in setting the organization up for success and guiding MEEA through many pivotal moments. Simms served on the board from 2018-2023, and as board chair from 2021-2023. During this time, she helped develop the organization’s most recent strategic plan and form its DEI Committee.
“Kristol's passion for energy efficiency and serving our customers is exemplary," said Lenny Singh, President of Ameren Illinois. "We are proud to have her on our team and appreciate all of her efforts while serving the MEEA organization."
Simms offered insight and support as MEEA expanded to integrate equity and diverse suppliers into its membership and work. During the organization’s leadership transition in 2023, she worked with MEEA staff and the board to see that the organization continued to deliver on its mission, while also overseeing Ameren Illinois’ work related to the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA), Illinois’ landmark clean energy legislation.
"As the state transitions to more renewable energy sources, energy efficiency will take on an even greater role in achieving a more sustainable energy future. It's truly an honor to be recognized for our work to help our customers save money, reduce their energy consumption and improve their comfort," Simms said.
Simms was recognized alongside other winners during MEEA’s Midwest Energy Solutions Conference, Jan. 30-Feb. 1, in Chicago. For more information about MEEA and the Inspiring Efficiency Awards winners, visit: meeaconference.org/inspiring-efficiency-awards.
About Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and more than 800,000 natural gas customers throughout central and southern Illinois. Our service territory covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles. Our mission is to power the quality of life. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com. Follow us on Twitter @AmerenIllinois and Facebook.
About Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
MEEA leverages their expertise to be the Midwest’s leading resource for our members, allies, policymakers and the broader sector to promote energy efficiency as the essential pathway to achieve a clean, affordable, equitable and sustainable future. Visit www.mwalliance.org for more information.
Contacts:
Ameren Illinois Media Relations
Karly Combest
217-778-3726
kcombest@ameren.com
Jen Rhodes, MEEA
312-784-7263
jrhodes@mwalliance.org