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Lei Zhang: A Visionary Leader in Energy Transition

In a groundbreaking recognition, Lei Zhang, the founder and CEO of Envision, has been awarded the prestigious President's Award by the Energy Institute (EI) for the year 2026. This accolade is not only a testament to his leadership but also marks a significant milestone for private sector influence in the realm of energy. Lei Zhang is the first business leader to earn this honor, which has typically been given to figures from government and international organizations.

The president of the Energy Institute, Andy Brown, remarked on Zhang's noteworthy achievements, emphasizing how his vision and leadership have shaped modern energy systems. Through his company, Envision, Zhang is pioneering smart, sustainable solutions in the energy sector. His approach is lauded for not just addressing the urgent climate crisis but also for fostering economic growth through the transition to renewable energy.

Transformative Impact on Energy Systems

Zhang's work has highlighted energy transition as not just a challenge but also an economic opportunity. His perspective has led to advancements in industry standards, educational initiatives, and long-term strategic thinking on how energy systems can harmonize with societal needs. The recognition from the Energy Institute underlines the critical realization that achieving net-zero emissions will depend significantly on the private sector alongside necessary policy measures.

Accepting the award, Zhang articulated an optimistic vision for the future of energy. He draws parallels between today’s renewable energy landscape with historical milestones such as the introduction of paper, which revolutionized access to knowledge. He stated, “The era of fossil fuels will pass. What is ahead is not just a new energy system but a new horizon for humanity.” Zhang emphasized that when energy becomes as abundant and accessible as paper was for knowledge, it has the potential to unlock creativity and restore dignity to individuals, ultimately driving a new wave of prosperity.

AI and the Future of Energy

Zhang is also recognized as a significant voice in global discussions on climate and energy. Co-founding the Global Sustainability School with the London School of Economics, he was listed among TIME magazine’s “100 Most Influential Climate Leaders” for 2025. His commitment goes beyond corporate achievement; it encapsulates a mission to leverage technology for addressing shared global challenges.

The Energy Institute's prestigious award reflects a growing acknowledgment of the crucial roles businesses play in the future of sustainable energy. Zhang argues that with AI reshaping investment and operational capacities, the demand for energy is set to increase exponentially in the coming decades. Innovative strategies have enabled China to lower the costs of renewable energy technology significantly, making it competitive against fossil fuels.

He insists that despite skepticism surrounding renewable energy's affordability, history has shown that accessibility leads to unprecedented advancements. He recalled how paper was once dismissed as inferior to parchment until its proliferation democratized knowledge and sparked the Renaissance.

Zhang envisions a future where clean energy is the foundation of an evolving civilization, moving humanity toward cooperation and mutual advancement. His optimism is not baseless; it is grounded in evidence from regions developing renewable energy solutions that radically improve living standards and educational access.

Shaping the Future Together

Zhang’s achievements at Envision—which include launching global projects like Dubhe, a model that integrates AI with energy systems—illustrate his dedication to transforming energy infrastructures to meet future demands. His vision includes a three-pillar foundation for energy: Infinite, Intelligent, and Economical, all aimed at fostering a sustainable environment for generations to come.

The Energy Institute continues to serve as a rallying point for professionals in the energy sector, advocating for a fair transition to net-zero emissions. Events such as the International Energy Week hosted by the EI highlight the critical role of policy, industry, and public partnership in driving meaningful change.

As the global community collectively faces the challenges posed by climate change, figures like Lei Zhang exemplify the types of leaders needed who can bridge the gap between innovation and practical application, ensuring a prosperous future for all. Zhang’s acceptance speech encapsulated this sentiment, calling upon humanity to harness the power of abundant energy to not only meet demands but forge a path toward a better civilization.

In conclusion, Lei Zhang's recognition by the Energy Institute is not merely a personal achievement but a beacon of hope for the energy sector, demonstrating that collaboration, ingenuity, and vision can lead to an era of unprecedented growth and sustainability.