Solar-Gem, a Sydney-based company that provides affordable off-grid energy solutions based on clean solar power systems, has been named a finalist in the 2010 Australian International Design Awards.

Presented by Standards Australia, the Design Awards are Australia’s premier design assessment program, recognising Australian and international design and innovation excellence.

“It’s an honor to be named among the best and brightest designers in Australia,” said Solar-Gem CEO Khimji Vaghjiani, who recently wrote on Australian Anthill about his experience dealing with US venture capitalists. Solar-Gem was also named the Australian Innovator of the Year by the G’DAY USA Australian Innovation Shootout.

The awards program recognised Solar-Gem’s Solar Home Lighting System, an off-grid energy solution that eliminates indoor air pollution resulting from the use of solid fuels. The system can be installed without trained technicians and is designed ideally for people still unable to access electricity and lighting in rural and regional areas.

“It’s exciting to see companies – big and small – embracing design strategy to assist in business success,” said Stephanie Pemberton, program director for the Australian International Design Awards. ”Products that clearly showed a considered approach to the professional design process, incorporating some level of innovation and environmentally responsible decisions, rated highly with the judges.”

Winners of the 2010 Australian International Design Awards, which include the 2010 Australian International Design Award of the Year and a special Award for Excellence in Sustainable Design, will be announced on Friday 4 June 2010 at Wharf 8 in Sydney. All finalists in the 2010 Australian International Design Awards can now be viewed online at www.designawards.com.au.