One of the UK’s oldest, pioneering solar companies is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Solarsense UK Ltd, which was established in the mid-1990s and is based in Somerset, is the leading solar PV installation business in the South-west of England.
The company has been led by Managing Director Stephen Barrett from the very beginning, a remarkable achievement given the often, precarious nature of the UK solar industry over the last 25 years.
As part of the celebrations, Solarsense has chosen to support Bristol charity The Brightwell, home of the West of England MS Therapy Centre for the treatment of long-term chronic neurological conditions. Solarsense have already donated and installed a 30kWp solar PV installation at The Brightwell, with further plans for other low carbon and energy efficiency improvements later in the year. This will significantly reduce The Brightwell’s energy bills, thus releasing essential funds for front-line care services.
Solarsense clients include the RSPB, Duchy of Cornwall, Worthy Farm (Glastonbury Festival), NHS, and Balfour Beatty. New wins in 2021 include Bristol airport, and a three-year contract with Avon Fire authority to design and install solar PV, battery storage and heat pumps across their estate.
Stephen Barrett said “Over the last 25 years, solar PV in the UK has gone from being a fringe, expensive demonstration product, to a mainstream, cost-effective, everyday solution. Not many people predicted that back in the 1990s. At Solarsense, we are so proud to have been at the forefront of the UK installation sector for a quarter of a century, and to have ridden the notorious UK solar-coaster and prospered.”
Solarsense, which specialises in commercial, public sector and residential roof-top installations, has exciting plans for the future, including an expansion from its South-west base. The company, which has seen turnover increase in 2021 despite covid lockdowns, is predicting rapid growth in the booming hybrid solar and storage market, and further residential demand driven by the electric car revolution and subsequent interest in solar.
Stephen Barrett said “As we start the next 25 years, I want Solarsense to continue to grow as a major UK solar player, delivering national contracts, building on our high-profile work with organisations such as the RSPB, and working with our corporate and public sector clients to fight climate change. We want to be recognised as one of the UK’s leading solar energy companies. Here’s to the next 25 years.”
