Lena Eckerberg

Country: Sweden
Nominated by: Therese Hjelseth (Director of the Orebro Energy Agency and Vice-Pesident of the Swedish network of regional energy agencies)

Summary of Nominee’s Contributions

Lena has been a driving force in sustainable energy and climate action since 1999 through her work at the Energy Agency Southern Sweden. As a project manager, she has led over 30 EU-funded projects, guiding colleagues in identifying opportunities and developing impactful initiatives.

Her expertise and strategic vision have helped municipalities and organisations access EU funding and implement energy-saving measures. Beyond her technical skills, Lena excels at bridging local and European levels, connecting municipalities with international resources. She has also contributed to Horizon Europe’s reference group for climate, energy, and mobility and served as an EU program evaluator.

More than just part of the progress, Lena has actively driven change in the energy sector, making her a key figure in sustainability.

Creativity and Strategic Vision

Lena continuously pioneers innovative approaches to energy challenges. She introduced regional energy balances, now a vital tool for strategic energy transitions, and established a regional network for energy and climate advisors that has thrived for over 25 years, empowering communities in their energy transition.

Her Night Hawks project revolutionized how companies detect energy waste by analyzing consumption outside working hours. Always forward-thinking, she anticipates energy sector trends, adapts projects accordingly, and connects local needs with EU funding opportunities—reinforcing sustainability efforts at regional and European levels.

Impact

Lena has transformed municipal energy and climate advisory services by organizing them into networks, strengthening their competence, and ensuring effective support for municipalities.

Through Energikontor Syd, she has played a key role in aligning advisory services with EU directives such as the EED, EPBD, and Renewable Energy Directive, while also tackling energy poverty and promoting energy efficiency.

Over the past 25 years, she has facilitated knowledge exchange across nearly 20 EU countries through 180–200 partner meetings, fostering interregional collaboration in line with EU objectives.

Her ability to secure funding has had a tangible impact: she has led over 100 project applications, securing approximately €7.6 million for regional energy development. Since 2008, her successful applications to the Swedish Energy Agency have resulted in numerous approved projects, increasing awareness and proactive implementation of EU energy and climate directives at the local and regional levels.

Leadership

Lena is known for her ability to engage, motivate, and inspire action in sustainable energy and climate initiatives. She has played a crucial role in encouraging municipalities to join the Covenant of Mayors, strengthening their commitment to sustainable solutions. Her leadership style is inclusive, ensuring that all stakeholders feel involved and empowered.

Beyond her technical achievements, Lena has built lasting partnerships in EU projects and strengthened Sweden’s role in European energy initiatives. She fosters a mentorship culture, guiding colleagues who now carry their knowledge forward into new roles and careers.

Her leadership is not about directing from the top—it’s about equipping others with the tools, confidence, and motivation to take action. Lena’s ability to inspire ensures that her impact on climate action will continue for years to come.