The prestigious awards, held at a gala event in Sydney last night, acknowledge the nation’s top entrepreneurial talent and the contribution entrepreneurs make to the economy and our broader community.

“To have won this coveted national award is a great vote of confidence in the outstanding work of everyone at ZEN Home Energy Systems,” Richard said. “The calibre of the other interstate winners we were up against was exceptional and inspiring. “I’m extremely proud of the company we have built and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for us. “The success of ZEN is living proof that business success and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand. “The cornerstones of system quality, safety, customer service and technical support are all values incorporated in the ZEN brand and have allowed us to grow exponentially across Australia.

“The mission of ZEN is to show our customers how to Live Free in a Zero Energy environment. Our vision is to create Australia's leading Renewable Energy Brand.” Richard built ZEN Home Energy Systems from start-up in Adelaide to market leader in just five years, with year upon year self-funded 800% growth.

ZEN plans to reach $100 million turnover in FY2011 via brand development, national expansion with plans to open 14 retail stores across Australia this financial year, and escalating strategic partnerships with industry and local government. Ernst & Young Oceania CEO and Managing Partner Rob McLeod said entrepreneurs were the lifeblood of the economy, fuelling technological innovation and new job growth.

“This is the 10th year of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards in Australia and we are very proud of this celebration of entrepreneurial talent,” he said. Chair of the judging panel, Catherine Brenner said the exponential growth path of ZEN was particularly impressive. “Richard Turner is a true entrepreneur,” she said. "With ZEN, Richard Turner has taken an off-the-shelf product and packaged and remarketed it in way that is more attractive to the customer and differentiated his product from bigger competitors.

” The Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world's most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates those who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses in 135 cities in 50 countries around the world.

Since the awards began in Australia in 2001 the program has recognised more than 800 Australian entrepreneurs for their vision and achievements.

ZEN Home Energy Systems is Australia's first fully branded and packaged Solar Home Energy System. Call us on 1300 ZEN HOME or visit zenhomeenergy.com.au.