Green energy firm BBOXX scoops national prize

A SOLAR energy systems provider founded in Macclesfield has triumphed in a national enterprise competition.

BBOXX, founded in 2010, won £50,000 and mentoring for two years at the Lloyds TSB Enterprise Awards in Birmingham.

Judges were impressed with the company’s use of sophisticated technology and the positive difference it has made to people’s lives in developing countries. The company has electrified more than 3,000 households in the developing world.

The company’s solar energy systems, coupled with a sophisticated franchising model, have resulted in BBOXX becoming active in 14 countries throughout Asia and Africa in the space of just three years.

Having already won its regional heat – where it won £5,000 BBOXX – saw off competition from 15 other finalists after a robust pitch process in front of the judging panel.

Co-founder Laurent Van Houcke said: “BBOXX is founded on the notion that anything is possible. It’s this attitude that inspired us to take our first prototype into the field, set up a manufacturing arm and extend our offering into unknown markets. We have an ambition to provide 20 million people with reliable, sustainable electricity by 2020.”

“Thanks to the financial investment and mentorship of Lloyds TSB, we are one step closer to achieving this.”

BBOXX, which has 26 staff, has recently moved its head office to London.

David Oldfield, managing director SME and mid markets, Lloyds Banking Group, said: “We were bowled over by the professionalism and commercial acumen of the young entrepreneurs that entered this year’s awards, and we believe that we have had the honour of meeting many of Britain’s future business leaders as part of this process.”