The U.S. water power industry is delivering results, whether by modernizing aging infrastructure, expanding public access, or deploying adaptive marine energy technologies. But too often, that work goes unrecognized. NHA’s Achievements in Water Power Awards exists to change that.

Open to the full range of water power operators, utilities, contractors, nonprofits, and industry partners, the awards shine a spotlight on the projects and programs making a measurable difference across the industry.

Applications are open now through July 1, 2026, and if your organization or program did impactful work in 2025, then here’s why you should be paying attention.

1. It Was Built for This Industry

The Achievements in Water Power Awards are designed specifically for the full breadth of the U.S. water power community.

Whether your organization advanced a technical upgrade, improved fish passage, or launched a public education campaign, then there’s an opportunity for your work to be recognized.

The awards build on the legacy of NHA’s Outstanding Stewards of America’s Waters program, carrying forward a tradition of recognizing excellence that the industry has trusted since 1994.

2. If You Did the Work, You Should Apply

The application process is straightforward, and the bar for eligibility is clear: the awards recognize projects completed or substantially realized in 2025 with demonstrated, measurable impact.

The strongest submissions tell a compelling story that anyone can understand. If your organization solved a hard problem, delivered real outcomes, or moved the needle on water power’s environmental or operational performance last year, then this award exists to recognize exactly that.

3. Recognition That Actually Reaches People

Winning isn’t just a plaque. Recipients receive a formal award and presentation at NHA’s Clean Currents conference, a video screened before a full conference audience detailing the accomplishments, a feature in NHA’s POWERHOUSE, and amplification across the organization’s social media.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about the Achievements in Water Power Awards, follow the link.

To apply for the award, you will need to create an account on this page and complete a short form.