LEADING MORAY SOLAR FIRM ACQUIRES HEAT PUMP SPECIALISTS

Moray-based AES Solar has announced it has completed its acquisition of heating systems specialists Black Isle Renewables, making it one of the biggest renewable energy companies in Scotland. Established in 2010, Dingwall-based Black Isle Renewables installs high quality ground source and air source heat pumps and exhaust air units from major manufacturers, servicing a large area across the North of Scotland and Western Isles.

The company has a 16 strong team with 20 years of experience in renewable heating system and the completion of the deal is expected to have no major impact on the workforce. With over four decades of industry experience, leading solar specialists AES Solar is the longest established solar energy company in Europe, offering solar panels for home and business. In February 2024, the company was taken over by its existing leadership team as part of a management buyout to secure its long term future.

Jamie Di Sotto, Commercial Director at AES Solar, said: “This integration will make AES Solar one of the biggest renewable energy companies in Scotland which further strengthens our position in the market and reflects our strategy to remain the leading solar manufacturer and installer in Scotland and throughout the UK.

“This is a really promising time for everyone involved as we bring together the combined six decades of industry experience between AES Solar and Black Isle Renewables to offer our customers the very best in the design, installation and maintenance of renewable energy systems. This merger means that we can now provide a complete energy system to power and heat homes and businesses.

“Our continued focus on the solar installation process combined with our growing expertise in new innovation in the sector positions us as a trusted partner to support our valued customers and their goals. Both AES Solar and Black Isle Renewables have a key shared value in exceeding customer expectations which aligns well with our plans going forward and will enable us to build on our existing strong customer relationships. We are optimistic about the future potential and prospects for growing the business as a whole.”

Iain Thomas, Owner at Black Isle Renewables said: “This acquisition is fantastic news. Our goal has always been to be the go-to in renewable heating solutions in Scotland and with the support of AES Solar, we are closer to achieving that vision. I feel we share the same ethos and therefore know that our customers will continue to be in experienced, skilled hands on completion of the merger. Together we can leverage our expertise, knowledge and service across the company and we look forward to combining our resources to unlock new opportunities and add value.”

AES Solar intends to retain the Black Isle Renewables premises in Dingwall, providing job security for all 16 employees.