Active Energy chairman steps down

In a statement on Tuesday, the AIM-listed international vertically-integrated renewable energy, forestry management and timber processing firm said Lewis was leaving in order "to pursue his other business interests."

Michael Rowan, who currently sits on the Active Energy board as a non-executive director, will assume the role of interim non-executive chairman whilst the company evaluates potential candidates for the permanent chairman role.

Richard Spinks, chief executive officer of Active Energy said, "Frank Lewis has been a source of support and insight since being appointed as non-executive chairman early last year. We all wish him the best of luck in his future endeavours.

"The board now intends to interview individuals with the requisite skills to drive progress and growth across Active Energy's diversified business units. In particular, we are looking to appoint a chairman with the necessary experience to support Active Energy in fulfilling the potential of AEG CoalSwitch, our Biomass 'drop-in' coal replacement fuel. "

At 1510 BST, Active Energy shares were down 0.17p or 4.00% at 4.08p.