emPOWERing Industry Leaders
Discover the GCPA Pat Wood Power Star Award, honoring leaders like Kim Casey for advancing competitive energy markets in Texas since 2006.
The Pat Wood Power Star Award
The Moeller Sugg Impact Award
The Pat Wood Power Star Award
The GCPA established the Pat Wood Power Star Award to annually recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the electric energy sector. Named in honor of its inaugural recipient, Pat Wood III, a distinguished former chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), this award celebrates those who have pushed boundaries and fostered positive change in the industry.
Since its inception in 2006, the GCPA Board has selected recipients who exemplify pioneering spirit and influential leadership. These awardees are recognized as catalysts for advancing the electric energy sector through groundbreaking projects, collaborative initiatives, and innovative ideas that demonstrate a commitment to driving meaningful change.
The Pat Wood Power Star Award not only honors exceptional achievements but also inspires future leaders to emulate the innovative spirit showcased by Pat Wood III and subsequent honorees. It highlights the importance of vision, action, and collaboration in shaping the future of energy markets, contributing to a vibrant and competitive landscape. By celebrating these contributions, the GCPA aims to encourage further advancements in regional power markets, reinforcing its mission to support development and innovation within the industry.
2025 Pat Wood Power Star Award Recipient
Meet Kim Casey, our 2025 Pat Wood Power Star Award Recipient. The GCPA Board of Directors is pleased to announce it has selected Kim Casey as the 2025 recipient of the Pat Wood Power Star Award.
To view the full press release - CLICK HERE.
About Pat Wood III
In 2006, former FERC and Texas PUC chairman Pat Wood III was awarded the first annual Power Star Award. “Wood's guidance and leadership at both the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUC) and at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in Washington, DC have led to the award. Mr. Wood has put into practice his belief that competition can do a better job than regulation to deliver customer benefits and service innovation. Throughout his career, he has worked to advance a pro-consumer, market-oriented vision of regulation,” said John Stauffacher, Executive Director of GCPA as he presented the award.
The Moeller Sugg Impact Award
An esteemed recognition aimed at honoring teams or individuals who have made a significant and demonstrable impact within the MISO (Midcontinent Independent System Operator) and SPP (Southwest Power Pool) markets. This award celebrates those who excel through various avenues, including innovative strategies, influential contributions, or unwavering enthusiasm and dedication to their work.
Named after two prominent leaders in the industry, Clair Moeller, President and Chief Operating Officer of MISO, and Barbara Sugg, President and Chief Executive Officer of SPP, the award reflects their commitment to excellence and leadership within the energy sector. Notably, Moeller and Sugg are the first two recipients of this prestigious award, setting a benchmark for future nominees through their exceptional contributions and pioneering efforts.
To qualify for this award, candidates must showcase how their efforts have effectively transformed practices within the energy sector, promoting better efficiency, sustainability, or engagement in the market. Whether through groundbreaking projects, collaborative initiatives, or inspiring leadership, nominees should exemplify a commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering positive change.
The Moeller Sugg Impact Award also emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in the MISO/SPP landscape. Nominees may come from diverse backgrounds — including but not limited to utility companies, regulatory bodies, and advocacy groups — reflecting the multifaceted nature of the energy sector.
Ultimately, this award serves not only to honor outstanding achievements but also to inspire others within the industry to pursue innovative approaches and demonstrate passion in their endeavors, ultimately contributing to a more dynamic and efficient energy market. Recognizing the potential for profound impact, the Moeller Sugg Impact Award upholds a commitment to excellence and the spirit of cooperation that drives progress in the MISO and SPP regions.
2026 Moeller Sugg Impact Award Recipient
Brett Kruse, Vice President of Market Design for Calpine Corporation, a business unit of Constellation
The award will be presented during GCPA's 12th Annual MISO-SPP Regional Conference in New Orleans on February 23, 2026. Read the full announcement.
