We continue to present the 2024 Energynomics Awards nominees of the year, with the “Manager of the year” section, a category supported by Prime Batteries Technology. The Manager of the yearAward recognizes honours leaders who have demonstrated vision, innovation and an outstanding strategic approach, making a significant contribution to the development of the company and the energy sector. We will uncover five examples of managerial excellence and inspiration offered to the entire industry. Only one will be honoured at the Gala on 4 December, but each and all the people involved in these projects deserve our respect for the positive changes brought to society. We thank all the companies and personalities who have been involved in this endeavour to shape the image of the Romanian energy industry in 2024 through its achievements!
Alexandru Chiriță – Electrica
Alexandru Chiriță has strengthened Electrica’s position by attracting 450 million euros in European funding for green projects, setting an industry record. Under his leadership, the company implemented the AI-AE system to monitor its energy footprint and established strategic partnerships to develop green technologies. The company’s financial performance has been outstanding, reaching a record 15 lei/share and being included in the FTSE Russell international indices. These achievements highlight a unique combination of vision and strategic execution.
Claudiu Crețu – ELCEN
Under the leadership of Claudiu Crețu, ELCEN has submitted financing projects for three new cogeneration plants, designed to bring efficiency and sustainability to Bucharest’s centralised heating system. In 2024, the company signed agreements with the US Department of Energy and Sage Geosystems to utilise geothermal resources, promoting the capital’s energy transition. Crețu implemented a strategy based on change management, accelerating investments and solving the challenges of an underfunded system, positioning ELCEN as a leader in energy innovation.
Cristian Dragomir – WALDEVAR Energy
In just one year, Cristian Dragomir has positioned WALDEVAR Energy among the top EPC contractors in Romania, increasing turnover by 281% and the number of employees by 232%. Under his leadership, the company has developed new divisions, including post-delivery services and grid access, responding to market needs. Awarded by the National Council of SMEs for the fastest growing company in 2024, Dragomir has demonstrated an exceptional ability to implement strategies that have led to the company’s accelerated expansion.
Laura Lazăr – DRI Energy
Laura Lazăr successfully led DRI’s expansion in Romania, building a 299 MW portfolio in just one year. Under her leadership, DRI obtained commercial approvals for its first operational projects and brought a 60 MW solar park to the Ready-to-Build stage. With his experience in managing more than 521 MW of wind and solar assets, Lazar has demonstrated an outstanding combination of strategic vision and operational excellence, strengthening the company’s position in Europe.
Lucian Safta – Polytrade Global
Lucian Safta has transformed Polytrade Global into a key player in the renewable energy market, implementing more than 70 MW of EPC projects in 2024. In partnership with Vestas, the company helped connect a 400 MW wind farm, demonstrating advanced technical capabilities. Under Safta’s leadership, Polytrade grew its assets by 11.79% despite a difficult economic year, strengthening its financial and operational position. This progress reflects its strategic vision and adaptability in a dynamic sector.