The Katerva Awards recognise leaders in sustainability worldwide and Australian social enterprise Barefoot Power was named as the 2011 leader in Energy & Power at a ceremony in Tokyo today.
Barefoot Power CEO Rick Hooper was presented with this prestigious award by Princess Takamada of Japan.
Mr Hooper said it was an honour for Barefoot Power’s work to be recognised by the Katerva Award panel amongst nominees of high calibre. Energy & Power category runners up were Innowattech, Nanosolar, OPX BIO and Sun Catalytix.
“Billions of dollars are spent around the world each year on kerosene, which is not only damaging to the atmosphere and the environment, but is also harmful for people to breathe. Our solar energy solution provides an alternative to kerosene that is more affordable, safer and reduces carbon emissions,” Mr Hooper said.
“Recognition from organisations such as the Katerva Awards helps Barefoot Power reach its goal of impacting 5 million people by 2013. Individuals, families and communities have access to energy which will improve their lives,” he added.
The Katerva Awards are given annually to sustainability ideas in 10 categories. A network of spotters, researchers, panels, experts and thought leaders whittle down the world’s best sustainability initiatives, looking at practical, strategic, scientific, social and commercial aspects for each nominee.
Katerva Award nominees are based on the principles of Katerva, who seek out “game changers and industry breakers” like Barefoot Power, who are improving the world through ideas that prove efficient in impacting lifestyle, consumption and action in innovative ways.
Barefoot Power won the Australian Sustainability Award for Sustainable Small Company of the Year in November and was one of only two Australian companies to be featured in the 2011 Global Cleantech 100.
Barefoot Power’s PowaPack Jr Matrix passed Lighting Africa Certification in 2011, joining the Firefly Mobile light and phone charging system and PowaPack 5W home lighting system. Barefoot Power was featured in Screw Business as Usual, the latest book from Richard Branson of Virgin Unite.
Barefoot Power is funded through a diverse group of investors and the European Union.
To find out more about Barefoot Power’s products, distribution models and financing opportunities visit www.barefootpower.com
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