Founder of renewable energy retailer ZEN Home Energy Systems takes out Cleantech category in Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

Richard Turner, the founder of ZEN Home Energy Systems , was honoured at the 10th annual Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards for South Australia and the Northern Territory on July 15.

The awards recognise the region’s top entrepreneurial talent and their contributions to the economy and the broader community.

Richard and ZEN Home Energy Systems took out the renewable energy focused Cleantech category, an award that he says is a great vote of confidence in the company.

“I’m extremely proud of the company we have built and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for us,” he says. “Our company has been built on a total commitment to customer service and quality – the very foundation that has allowed us to grow exponentially across Australia.”

Richard built the renewable energy franchises from start-up to market leader in just five years, with a self-funded growth of 800% per year.

ZEN Home Energy Systems plan to extend their market reach in 2011 via brand development, national expansion and escalating strategic partnerships with industry and local government.

Mark Butcher, Ernst & Young’s South Australia Office Managing Partner, says both the nominees and winners in the 2010 awards showcased the success being achieved by entrepreneurs.

“I congratulate all our 2010 winners – successful entrepreneurs are more than simply high achievers. They seek out opportunities, turn vision into reality and create flow-on success for those around them,” he says.