Solar firm powers to double award success

A solar power firm is basking in glory after securing double award success.

CrowdHouse Energy was named business of the year and small business of the year (regional) at the North East Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards.

The Newcastle-based rooftop solar panel and electric vehicle charging apparatus provider was praised by judges for its strong growth, commercial success and commitment to sustainability. 

Hosted at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, in Gateshead, and supported by headline sponsor Bernicia, the event welcomed more than 350 guests to honour businesses across 12 categories that are making a significant impact through community engagement, innovation, sustainability and international growth.

Richard Blackwell, CrowdHouse Energy co-founder and chief executive, said: “To receive both awards is genuinely overwhelming. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the judges and the wider business community for this recognition; you only achieve something like this because of the people around you. 

“Our team, customers, partners and the support we have received across the North East have all played a huge part in our journey. 

“Having experienced business in other parts of the country, the warmth, collaboration and willingness of people here to help each other succeed is something that stands out. 

“We are incredibly proud to be part of that community and honoured to receive this recognition.”

The larger business of the year (regional) award went to Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa, which was recognised for its success amid sector adversity and its regional impact as a North East staycation destination. 

Eldon Square also impressed judges and was highly commended.

Other winners included:

Regional category winners:

AV Dawson – Community business of the year (Media Cultured, highly commended)

Andrew Broadbent (New College Durham) – Business leader of the year

Coffee Design – Customer excellence business of the year

Meg Hardiman (Community Foundation North East) – Rising star

National category winners:

Esh Group – Green innovation business of the year

William Hackett – International trade business of the year 

North East Escapes – Start up and grow business of the year

Care Messenger Holdings – Digital and technology business of the year

Osbit Ltd – People and work business of the year

John Johnston, chief executive at headline sponsor and North East social housing organisation Bernicia, said: “We are proud to sponsor the awards again and celebrate the outstanding businesses that make this region so special. 

“The stories shared throughout the evening showed real passion, vision and courage. 

“In challenging times, North East businesses continue to create jobs, support communities and create opportunities that help people and places take the next step, unlocking the full potential of the North East.”

Winners of the national categories will represent the region as automatic finalists at the British Chambers of Commerce Awards later this year.

The evening was hosted by North East advocate Charlie Charlton and featured live performances by Royal Beats and Northern Daughters by ISG, and students from Gateshead College.

The North East Chamber Business Awards are supported by category sponsors including Intuit, Newcastle College, Society Matters CIC, Big Purple Group, Lumo, Gateshead College, PD Ports, Walker Filtration, Sage, North East Cyber Resilience Centre, Northumbrian Water and Square One.

The Chamber’s next major event is the Inspiring Women in Business Awards, taking place on November 27 at Newcastle Civic Centre.

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