Sydney innovator wins 2012 Australian Cleantech Open Award

Sydney-based LED lighting company enLighten has won the 2012 Australian Clean Technologies (Cleantech) Competition Open Award.

The mission of the Cleantech Open, which is now in its second year, is to find, fund and foster companies with big ideas that address today’s most urgent energy, environmental and economic challenges.

This year, 103 companies entered the Cleantech Open. 30 semifinalists were invited to present their Cleantech solutions to local and international investors as part of a one-day investment showcase.

The seven finalists offered innovative solutions for energy efficiency, waste reduction and green construction, as well as showing the greatest global potential based on three key criteria: technology, market and business plan.

Cleantech Supplier Advocate Dr Marc Newson said the aim of the competition was to find the companies with the greatest potential regardless of whether they were early-stage start-ups or more mature companies with operating history.

Much of enLighten’s success can be attributed to the design-patented Chamaeleon multifunction LED light, which is suitable for low-occupancy spaces (fire stairs, car parks and back-of-house areas) and delivers up to 93% energy savings compared to traditional fluorescent lighting.

The Chamaeleon was recognised at the 2011 NSW Green Globe Awards, winning the Environmental Innovation Award. At the same awards ceremony, enLighten also won the Energy Award for its overall contribution to sustainability through energy-saving initiatives. The company will now go on to represent Australia at the Global Cleantech Competition in the US during November 2012.

“We are delighted to receive the recognition of the judging panel for both our lighting technology innovation and our business planning,” said enLighten General Manager Steve Cahill, who was presented the award by Parliamentary Secretary for Industry & Innovation Mark Dreyfus, whose department sponsors the competition.

“The rigorous submission process including the business planning workshops was an invaluable exercise for us and we look forward to the opportunity to compete now on an international stage,” said Cahill.