The sun is well and truly shining on AES Solar after winning first place in the Solar PV Project of the Year category at the National Energy Efficiency Awards.

The National Energy Efficiency Awards recognise best practices within the energy sector. The Energy Awards were held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Friday, September 29th. The awards celebrate business excellence, customer service, and industry collaboration. It offers a platform for nominees to showcase their accomplishments to customers, suppliers and peers.

Solar Brilliance

The National Solar PV Project of the Year Award acknowledges the individuals who have made significant contributions to the successful implementation of an energy-saving project by installing new solar PV systems as an energy efficiency measure Judging criteria included the level of expertise exhibited, the positive impact on the community, and feedback from clients.

Our journey to the national stage began back in June with our regional triumph in the Small Scale Project of the Year category at the Scottish Awards. These accolades recognise the pioneering solar PV installation on Edinburgh Castle. The system resulted in 31.5 kWp of solar PV installed on the historic Scottish landmark. The solar PV system was part of the Historic Environment Scotland’s programme to reduce energy use across the properties in its care. This was after they found the monument required an “incredible” amount of energy.

Edinburgh Castle is nationally important as an iconic monument. It is the most significant Scottish royal castle and has a central role in Scotland’s history. Despite the unique challenges presented by working on such a historically significant structure, AES Solar were deemed qualified for the task. This is thanks to our 44 years of experience in the industry. Our portfolio includes work on listed buildings, historic ruins and the Balmoral Royal Estate. As such, our team approached the project with meticulous care for the historical site. This was evident from the initial surveying stages through to the final installation.

The Award Winning Project

Installed on the Scottish National War Memorial building, the system is designed at a mounting angle. This ensures the height of the panels does not project over the parapet wall. As a result, the system is only visible from the air. This ensures the installation does not affect the city’s iconic skyline. The 84 SunPower solar PV panels selected are both discreet and aesthetically pleasing. On completion of the installation, the addition of grey gravel allowed the roof and the mounting frame to blend seamlessly together even when viewed from an aerial perspective.

The renewable energy generated by the new solar system is projected to reach approximately 26,500 kWh per year. This is equivalent to around 6,680kg of CO2. It is expected that this will more than offset the electrical consumption of the Scottish National War Memorial building. The site will use any additional energy generated elsewhere. Already a gratifying experience, we are delighted to now take home a national award commending this project, joining the regional award in the trophy cabinet.

Beaming with Pride

In attendance at the black-tie ceremony in Birmingham were AES Solar’s Managing Director, George Goudsmit, and Finance Director, Lynn Davidson delighted to celebrate the occasion regardless of the results on the night. Following the excitement of securing the top spot, MD George Goudsmit said:

“It was an honour to attend and accept this prestigious national award on behalf of us all. This was already a very special project to us all but to be acknowledged for our efforts nationally is astounding – and amongst such stiff competition too.”

“The project has been a collaborative effort from day one. Members across the company have lent their experience and technical knowledge. We owe our success to their dedication and expertise. This triumph also underscores the excellence of our partners and their products. This includes the SunPower solar PV panels, a SolarEdge Inverter, and Sunfixings mounting system. Historic Environment Scotland’s support and trust were also instrumental in the project’s success. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved with the pioneering project.”

Basking in Our Solar Glory

Jamie Di Sotto, Commercial Director of AES Solar added: “We would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the other companies shortlisted, commended and highly commended in this category, which include other innovative projects such as Chester Cathedral and Silverstone. We were certainly in good company! And our congratulations extend to the other nominees and winners of the night. It’s great to see so many examples of high standards and best practices continue in our industry despite the obstacles faced”