Simay Akar Koehler
Simay Akar Koehler is a globally recognized, multi-award-winning sustainable energy expert, serial entrepreneur, and mission-driven systems strategist with deep expertise in climate solutions, inclusive innovation, and environmental justice. She is the CEO and Founder of AKEC Sustainable & Greentech solutions, a purpose-driven consulting firm advancing the global energy transition through strategic planning, technology evaluation, and sustainable supply chain transformation for clean energy innovators and impact-focused enterprises.
With a robust international background in solar photovoltaics manufactuing, battery energy storage systems, electric mobility, and just energy transition programs, Simay brings a unique cross-sector perspective that bridges public-private partnerships, nonprofit impact, and responsible entrepreneurship. Her global footprint includes professional leadership roles in Türkiye, China, and the United States, and she has cultivated clean energy partnerships in more than 70 countries.
Simay was the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Innoses, a vertically integrated battery energy storage company, where she led global growth, financing, and ecosystem-building strategies to scale access to reliable and clean energy technologies. She previously held executive leadership positions at Talesun Solar and Eko Renewable Energy, driving stakeholder engagement, communications, and strategic initiatives for multibillion-dollar clean energy investments.
As a Senior Member of IEEE and Eta Kappa Nu (HKN), Simay is a long-time, active volunteer in global engineering and technology communities. She currently serves as Treasurer of the IEEE Humanitarian Technologies Board, stewarding philanthropic investments to support innovative solutions for access to water, energy, and infrastructure in underserved regions. Her dedication to equity, sustainability, and education is reflected in her advocacy for inclusive STEM programs, community-led action, and equitable global partnerships.
Simay graduated from Middle East Technical University in Ankara, Turkey, and participated Energy Innovation and Emerging Technologies Program at Stanford University. Her leadership has earned numerous accolades, including:
Awards & Recognitions
Simay Akar Koehler has received numerous prestigious honors from IEEE and other global organizations, recognizing her outstanding leadership, technical excellence, and commitment to sustainability, innovation, and inclusion:
Major Honors and Industry Recognitions
EMobility+ 40 Under 40, Winner, 2023
WINE (Women in New Energy) Entrepreneur of the Year Award, 2022
GCPIT Global Women in Leadership Award, Winner, 2022GCPIT Global Sustainability Award, Winner, 2021
CSUN Outstanding Staff Award, 2014
IEEE Community Impact Awards
IEEE Theodore W. Hissey Outstanding Young Professional Award, 2024
IEEE Clementina Saduwa Award, 2023
IEEE MGA Diversity & Inclusion Award, 2022
IEEE PES Robert P. Noberini Distinguished Contributions to Engineering Professionalism Award, 2022
IEEE Region 8 WIE Section Affinity Group of the Year Award, 2021
IEEE WIE Inspiring Member of the Year, Honorable Mention, 2020
IEEE Young Professionals Hall of Fame Award, 2018 (as part of PES YP Team)
IEEE MGA Young Professionals Achievement Award, 2017
IEEE MGA Achievement Award, 2014 (as IEEE Day Team Lead)
IEEE Day Leadership Award, 2013
A passionate advocate for women’s leadership in the climate and clean energy sectors, Simay continues to mentor emerging leaders and amplify diverse voices shaping a more sustainable and resilient future.
