SPV Energy has been named Solar PV Installer of the Year at the Scottish Regional Energy Efficiency & Retrofit Awards.
Commercial director Jim O’Brien, a former Partner with St James’s Place Wealth Management, and partner John Gorman run the Glasgow-based company which was responsible for the installation of 4000 Solar PV panels on the 700 sustainable energy homes at the Athletes’ Village in the city’s East End. Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) systems generate ‘free’ daytime electricity for properties reducing energy bills for tenants.
The company, which was also nominated for RHI Installer and Large Scale Project categories, will now be considered for the UK title at an awards ceremony to be held in Birmingham later in the year.
Despite changes in Government funding incentives, SPV Energy has grown from a start-up business in 2011 to one with a turnover of £2.8m, employing 35 people. The business recently doubled the size of its in-house call centre and provides training for all staff in partnership with local providers such as South Lanarkshire College.
Jim O’Brien said, “It’s a fantastic achievement for the business and all our staff especially when the industry has gone through so much change in the past year or so. We are a challenger brand within the energy sector and are proud of the work we have delivered on behalf of householders, Housing Associations and commercial clients. We firmly believe in sustainable growth within the sector and despite the reduction of incentives, homeowners are keen to explore ways to reduce their energy bills as budgets continue to be challenged and Solar PV panels are just one way we can achieve this.
“We have ambitious plans to develop the business further by offering other energy saving products and services and are considering opening a new Highlands office to develop our biomass heating systems for large commercial buildings especially within the agricultural sector which is experiencing positive growth.”
