Cleantech developer TwentyNinety has won a Shell Springboard award, for its innovative photovoltaic technology Active Array™.  The prestigious prize is recognition of the potential of Active Array™, which is launching this year, to make a significant impact on the global PV business.

Active Array™ is an innovative low cost wireless technology which allows communication with each module in a PV array.  It improves performance by 20% over the lifetime of the array, and adds safety and other benefits to photovoltaics.  The technology is in trial with customers, and is launching fully in 2011.

The Shell Springboard programme has awarded over £1.6 million to 54 UK small businesses since it launched in 2005. The programme helps small businesses make an impact in the fight against climate change by providing a no-strings-attached financial boost to companies with innovative products and services that could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  The Shell Springboard award to TwentyNinety is accompanied by a £20,000 prize.

Simon Hombersley, Chairman: “Shell Springboard is a highly competitive scheme, and TwentyNinety’s success is a huge vote of confidence in Active Array™ and the company by a credible and prestigious organisation. TwentyNinety adds intelligence to photovoltaics, and through the award Shell Springboard recognises the innovation and commercial potential of Active Array™.”

James Smith, Chairman Shell UK, said:  "Low carbon innovation creates real opportunities for British industry. The UK has huge talent and creativity in this area. In the last six years Shell Springboard has awarded over 50 small businesses with a total of £1.6 million to advance their new business ideas for products and services to tackle climate change.”

To find out more about Shell Springboard visit www.shellspringboard.org.uk