The Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) is proud to announce that Executive Director I. Katherine “Kathy” Magruder was awarded the CEO & Chair Award from the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC), recognizing her lifetime contributions to advancing clean energy and decarbonization efforts throughout Maryland.
The award was presented during GWRCCC’s 15th Annual Clean Energy & Transportation Conference hosted on October 22, 2026, in Greenbelt, Md. The organization promotes sustainability throughout the region, and its annual conference brings together energy sector leaders and professionals to address industry challenges, share progress, and recognize outstanding contributions.
Kathy has been a dedicated advocate for clean energy, innovation, economic development, and collaboration across the energy community in Maryland. Having led MCEC since its founding in 2009, she has played a central role in shaping the organization’s vision and establishing it as a nationally recognized green bank. An independent study at Salisbury University found that MCEC generated $824.5 million in statewide economic output, supported over 3,000 jobs, and returned $17.91 to the economy for every public dollar invested.
Under her leadership, MCEC established financing initiatives to support residential and commercial clean energy adoption, including the Clean Energy Advantage Loan (CEA) Program, Maryland Clean Energy Capital Program (MCAP), and Climate Catalytic Capital (C3) Fund. She also advanced technology commercialization through the Maryland Energy Innovation Accelerator, expanded procurement and technical assistance, and helped secure federal funding for solar access, electric vehicle infrastructure, and emerging technologies. These accomplishments are a testament to her lasting impact on Maryland’s clean energy landscape and the exceptional leadership highlighted by this award.
MCEC congratulates Kathy on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates her continued commitment to creating a more sustainable future for Maryland communities, businesses, and environment!