In a heartfelt ceremony at San Francisco City Hall, the Johanna Wald Environmental Service Award was presented to Jennifer Berg, a former program administrator at the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BAYREN). The award recognizes Berg's transformative contributions to energy efficiency in the Bay Area, where she led initiatives that upgraded over 12,000 residential units, primarily in affordable housing.

Commissioner Tompkins highlighted Berg's impressive 13-year tenure at BAYREN, noting her pivotal role in expanding the organization from a single program to ten, significantly impacting both residents and businesses. Her advocacy for regulatory policies has not only supported small businesses but also ensured sustainable funding for energy efficiency programs.

Berg, visibly moved, expressed her gratitude, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that made BAYREN's success possible. She acknowledged the foundational support from the San Francisco Environment Department and the late Cal Broomhead, who was instrumental in the program's inception. Berg's connection to the city runs deep; she was born and raised in San Francisco, and her late mother served as an elected official, instilling in her a commitment to public service.

The ceremony also featured tributes from colleagues who praised Berg's leadership and dedication to equity in energy programs. Kara Battista Rao, a senior energy specialist, commended Berg for her focus on ensuring that underserved communities benefit from energy efficiency initiatives.

As the meeting concluded, attendees celebrated not just Berg's achievements but also the enduring legacy of her work, which continues to inspire a movement towards a more sustainable and equitable future in San Francisco.