2026 CMUA Impact Awards: Members Invited to Apply Now
►About the Program
The CMUA Impact Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of our members and the individuals who make them possible. Over the years, CMUA’s awards program has recognized hundreds of innovative projects, exceptional service, and leadership excellence across California’s power, water and wastewater utilities.
** New This Year **
We’re excited to introduce new award categories that better reflect the diverse accomplishments of our membership, along with a simplified application process to make participation easier than ever. Download a PDF flyer with all the information on this webpage.
Submission Deadline: February 2, 2026
Awards Recognition: Award recipients will be formally announced during CMUA Annual Conference, Monterey in Calif., on March 22 – 24, 2026.
►Application Guidelines
Maximum 3 applications per organization
• One application per category
• Programs/achievements must have occurred within the past 3 years
• Complete all required fields
• Submit the application as PDF to mwilliams@cmua.org
►Award Categories (Select One)
• Innovative Projects & Programs
Groundbreaking projects and programs that advance utility operations, such as technology and infrastructure (excluding customer service and communications programs – see following categories)
• Communications Achievement
Creative and effective communications initiatives and campaigns, either public or internal communications
• Customer Service Excellence
Efforts delivering outstanding and innovative services to utility customers
• Legislative & Regulatory Leadership
Successful advocacy, policy development or regulatory engagement
►How to Submit an Application
Please provide the following:
1. Category & Basic Information
• Award category
• Organization name
• Contact information
• Project/achievement title
2. Description (250 words max) What was accomplished and when?
3. Impact (250 words max) What were the measurable results and benefits?
4. Innovation (250 words max) What made this unique or creative?
5. Supporting Materials (Optional) Attach up to 3 supporting documents (photos, metrics, testimonials, etc.)
►Selection
Applications are judged by an outside panel with expertise in the energy and water industry. First-place awards will be given to small-, medium-, and large-sized utilities for each award category.
►Questions?
Email CMUA Communications Director Matt Williams at mwilliams@cmua.org