emPOWERing Industry Leaders

Discover the GCPA Pat Wood Power Star Award, honoring leaders like Julie Parsley for advancing competitive energy markets in Texas since 2006.

The Pat Wood Power Star Award

The GCPA established the Pat Wood Power Star Award to annually recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to the advancement of competitive energy markets. This prestigious award is named in honor of its initial recipient, Pat Wood III, a distinguished former chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUC).

Since its inception in 2006, the GCPA Board has carefully selected award recipients who exemplify pioneering spirit and influential leadership within the energy sector, specifically focusing on the development and enhancement of competitive energy markets in the ERCOT region. The recipients of the Pat Wood Power Star Award are individuals who have not only made remarkable contributions but have also acted as prime movers in transforming the landscape of energy competition through innovative ideas and practices.

The leadership demonstrated by these awardees is characterized by a deep dedication to the advancement of competitive energy markets. Their efforts have paved the way for meaningful changes that promote efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration within the regional power ecosystem. The awardees are often seen as champions of market evolution, inspiring others through their proactive approaches and unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant energy marketplace.

The Pat Wood Power Star Award serves not only to honor outstanding achievements but also to inspire future leaders within the energy sector to emulate the spirit of innovation and dedication exemplified by Pat Wood III and subsequent recipients. This recognition highlights the importance of collaboration, vision, and action in shaping the future of energy markets, ultimately contributing to a more dynamic and competitive landscape. By celebrating these notable contributions, the GCPA aims to encourage further advancements in the regional power markets, reinforcing its mission to support development and innovation within the industry.

2024 Pat Wood Power Star Award Recipient

Meet Julie Parsley, our 2024 Pat Wood Power Star Award Recipient. The GCPA Board of Directors is pleased to announce it has selected Julie C. Parsley as the 2024 recipient of the Pat Wood Power Star Award.

To view the full press release - CLICK HERE.

Past Recipients

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.