LEADERS from green energy business, finance, policy and politics gathered in London for the tenth annual British Renewable Energy Association awards gala, which saw Forever Fuels, which has a depot in Okehampton, win the coveted Renewable Energy Company of the Year award.

Managing director Bruno Prior said: 'Our mission is to make wood-pellet heating as simple, economic and common in off-grid areas as any other form of heating.

'We aim to sell 1-million tonnes in '20/21 out of a total market of 3-million tonnes. What sets us apart is our level of investment and the unprecedented growth of our business — six-fold over three years — compared with those in other renewable energy sectors. Devon and Cornwall are key growth areas for us and our Okehampton team should be proud of the contribution they have made to the company's success.

'Our growth is attributable to the foresight and entrepreneurship of our management team, the hard work of our staff and business partners, and the £20-million investment we have received from our parent company, Summerleaze Ltd.

'We have spent our money wisely, investing in depots and specialist tankers to create the most comprehensive distribution network throughout the UK of any wood-pellet fuel supplier. We are adding more tankers to our South West fleet later this year to meet increasing demand.'

Sales and marketing manager Claire Hoyles said: 'We are thrilled with our win.

'This is a significant endorsement for both Forever Fuels and wood heating in general. The dedication and commitment of our Okehampton team has underpinned the growth of our business across the region.'