Envision has expanded rapidly in Mexico in recent years, and Valdez has been instrumental in leading its regional team to achieve growth, the awards committee said.
In 2014, he managed Envision's acquisition of ViveEnergia's 600 MW portfolio which was considered to be China's largest outbound direct investment in the Mexican renewable energy space at that time.
Together with its Mexican partners, he successfully brought two projects into a 'ready to build' stage in Yucatan Peninsula within 18 months, a total of 190MW, including a 90MW PPA in Mexico's first long term energy auction.
"It is an honor to receive this award and I'm very grateful for the recognition among my peers in the wind industry," Valdez said as he accepted the award. "I feel fortunate to work with very talented and hardworking team from Envision and ViveEnergia and much of this success is due to their commitment and experience to drive Mexico's renewable market forward."
Felix Zhang, executive director of Envision, said Mexico is a key part of the company's international growth.
"Rafael has expertly identified the areas of opportunity in this market for Envision," he said, "I am extremely grateful for Rafael's contribution and leadership as we enter Mexico and Latin America, a strategic yet very competitive market for our company."
The Wind Industry Champion was selected by an impartial panel of senior industry leaders.
Commenting on the award, one of the judges said: "We recognize Rafael for his business performance and perseverance in establishing Envision as one of the most progressive players in the wind market in Mexico."
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