In the heart of one of America’s oldest cities, Emily Schapira is leading a modern transformation. As president and chief executive officer of Philadelphia Energy Authority, she is reimagining what energy leadership looks like—not through megawatts and market share alone, but through measurable, people-centered impact. Her work isn’t simply about delivering clean power; it’s about ensuring that power serves everyone, equitably and sustainably.
Schapira stepped into her role when the City of Philadelphia called for strategic, results-driven leadership to manage its energy policy and implement long-term sustainability initiatives. With a strong foundation in both business and civic engagement, she brought a bold yet practical approach to what many saw as a bureaucratic space. What followed was a transformation that put Philadelphia Energy Authority at the forefront of municipal energy innovation.
She views energy as a tool for empowerment. Under her direction, Philadelphia Energy Authority has linked every project and program to workforce development, education and economic revitalization. The Philadelphia Energy Campaign—a billion-dollar initiative launched under her leadership—has generated more than 1,800 jobs while expanding access to affordable, efficient energy solutions for schools, small businesses and low-income households.
As a Titan 100 Honoree, what distinguishes Schapira is the conviction that clean energy must uplift communities, not just reduce emissions. She has turned that belief into action through partnerships, training programs and policy development that bring real benefits to everyday Philadelphians.
She leads with a focus on scale and longevity. Her vision is for Philadelphia to become a national model—a city where energy is a catalyst for innovation, resilience and inclusion. By aligning infrastructure upgrades with job creation, and renewable energy adoption with equity, Schapira is creating a blueprint for cities across the country.
Innovation under her leadership is never abstract. It shows up in solar installations at schools, in energy retrofits that cut costs for building owners and in training programs that prepare residents for careers in the growing clean energy economy. These outcomes are the result of deliberate planning, strategic partnerships and a tireless commitment to accessibility.
While many executives operate at a distance from the outcomes of their decisions, Schapira remains deeply connected to the communities Philadelphia Energy Authority serves. She engages with students, collaborates with tradespeople and supports a team culture rooted in purpose. Her leadership style is inclusive and transparent, designed to ensure that every stakeholder has a seat at the table—and a role in shaping the city’s future.
Schapira is not just moving the energy conversation forward—she is changing who it includes and what it delivers. Her approach makes clear that leadership is about more than influence; it’s about impact. Through her work at Philadelphia Energy Authority, she has illuminated a new path for civic innovation—one powered not just by technology, but by trust, strategy and shared progress.
