CEEM honors journalist Frank Jossi and announces the inaugural Melissa A. Hortman Award

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Clean Energy Economy MN (CEEM) today honored longtime energy journalist Frank Jossi with its Excellence in Clean Energy Journalism Award, recognizing his decades of reporting and his continued contributions to Minnesotans’ understanding of the state’s fast-changing energy landscape. CEEM also announced the creation of the Melissa A. Hortman Award, named in memory of the late speaker emerita whose leadership helped shape Minnesota’s clean energy future.

Jossi received the award at CEEM’s 2026 Legislative Preview, where lawmakers, business leaders and energy experts gathered to discuss the year ahead. The award recognizes Jossi’s career-long commitment to clear, fact-driven reporting on energy policy and the communities affected by Minnesota’s energy transition.

“For decades, Frank Jossi has helped Minnesotans understand some of the most complex and consequential issues shaping our energy future,” said Gregg Mast, CEEM’s executive director. “Frank brings clarity, curiosity and integrity to every story he writes. His work has strengthened our statewide conversation by helping people connect the dots between policy, technology and real-world impact.”

Jossi continues to report on energy and business issues for publications including the Finance & Commerce. His work is widely respected across the industry for its accuracy, accessibility and attention to the people behind the policies.

CEEM also introduced a new award in honor of Melissa Hortman, which will be awarded from time to time to leaders whose work significantly advances the development or adoption of innovative energy solutions in Minnesota. The award honors the legacy of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, one of the most influential and effective public servants in state history.

“Speaker Hortman devoted her career to improving the lives of Minnesotans through public service,” Mast said. “She played a central role in shaping some of the most significant energy policies in our state’s history, including Minnesota’s solar energy standard, the development of community solar gardens and the 100 percent carbon-free electricity standard. Her impact will be felt for generations.”

Hortman regularly partnered with CEEM and joined the organization at Clean Energy Business Day, Summer Unwind and other events throughout her career. CEEM leaders described her as a trusted collaborator whose clarity, generosity and commitment to the common good strengthened Minnesota’s policy landscape.

The Hortman Award will be presented posthumously in her honor.

###

About Clean Energy Economy MN (CEEM): CEEM is an industry-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit representing the business case for clean energy in Minnesota. CEEM provides a unified voice for clean energy business across the state. Our mission is to provide educational leadership, collaboration, and policy analysis that accelerates clean energy market growth and smart energy policies.