Twelve Ullapool High School pupils have been awarded Highlands and Islands Young Engineers Club of the Year Award by the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) for their renewable energy project.

Topher Dawson and his group of 16-18 year old pupils constructed their very own solar panels. The group were supported by local renewables company Invisible Heating Systems who sponsored the group and supplied the materials.

The group were presented their award at a dinner and awards ceremony hosted by Ruby Wax and held at the Newton Hotel in Nairn on 14th September 2007.

Invisible Heating Systems (IHS) who started in Ullapool over 12 years ago have established a national business in total systems to include renewables and now employ 26 people in Ullapool and last year opened another office near Birmingham.

Liz Stewart, director of Invisible heating, said: "Over the years as a local company IHS have supported the different local young groups and clubs. We believe we must invest in training and apprenticeships and encourage and pass on our skills and experience to the younger generation.

"We look forward with interest to Topher and his pupils' next venture. We understand they are already working on the design and models to build some wave power using simple every day materials and solutions. Watch this space."

The full list of award winners was:

BT Scotland Award for Excellence in Information Communication Technology
C3Amulet, Dingwall

Caledonian MacBrayne Award for Excellence in Promotion of the Environment
Ionad Naomh Moluag, Lismore

Highlands and Islands Enterprise Award for Excellence in Research and Development
Stornoway Plastics, Lewis

Orion Group Award for Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility
SGL Technic, Muir of Ord

Royal Bank of Scotland Award for Excellence in International Business
Baxters Food Group, Fochabers

Scottish Natural Heritage Award for Excellence in Environmental Sustainability
Hambleside Danelaw, Dalcross

VisitScotland Award for Excellence in Business Tourism
MacDonald Aviemore Highland Resort

SCDI Award for Highlands and Islands Young Engineers Club of the Year
Ullapool High School

SCDI Chairman’s Award for Outstanding Business Achievement