AES Solar managing director George Goudsmit to step down as part of existing management buyout
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THE FOUNDER of an industry leading local business is taking a step back after four decades in charge.
The longest established solar company in Europe, AES Solar, has announced that managing director George Goudsmit is stepping down and management will be taken over by the existing senior leadership team as part of a buyout which secures the company’s long term future.
Mr Goudsmit said: “When the business started in 1979 it was pioneering the manufacture of solar technology. I was convinced that solar was the logical solution to our energy needs and should be available to all at a reasonable cost. Four decades later, it is satisfying to see that vision become a reality.
"By focusing solely on solar panels, I grew the business and now our solar installations are on all kinds of buildings from off-grid remote cottages to landmarks like Edinburgh Castle. Interest in solar technology continues to grow and I look forward to watching the new management team take the company forward to the next chapter in renewable energy.”
The 82-year-old took on AES Solar when he moved to Scotland from London in 1989. At the time, the small heating company had a sideline in solar panel manufacture.
Mr Goudsmit focused on the solar side, becoming the only UK manufacturer of solar thermal panels and expanding into a range of solar technology.
From a modest turnover of £30,000, the business now has a turnover of £10million, with significant growth occurring over the last three years.
Mr Goudsmit said: "The company has grown in a harmonious way and I am looking forward to exploring new innovation in the sector, safe in the knowledge that the business is in good hands.
"I always predicted great things for this industry and when I reflect on the past 30 plus years, there is so much to be proud of.”
Moray’s MSP Richard Lochhead has enjoyed getting to know George over the years.
He said: "He can be very proud of how he has grown AES Solar into an incredibly successful business - and been a real leader in the renewables sector.
“George really was ahead of his time. For decades he’s been at the forefront of work to produce cleaner energy and to grow renewables in Scotland and across the UK.
“I wish him all the very best and have no doubt that the new leadership team will ensure AES Solar continues to go from strength-to-strength.”
AES commercial director, Jamie Di Sotto, pointed out that the sector is known as the ‘solar coaster’ because of its historic peaks and troughs.
He said: "To have steadily grown the business over that time is testament to George’s skill and dedicated belief in renewable energy.
"I am looking forward to continued growth and exciting new projects."
The other members involved in the management buy-out are technical director Campbell MacLennan and finance director Lynn Davidson.
Mr Goudsmit will continue to explore new technologies and trends on behalf of AES Solar.
In 2021, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Solar and Storage Awards. As well as noting his infectious enthusiasm and advocacy on behalf of the industry, he was recognised for personally convincing the late Queen Elizabeth II to install solar energy at Balmoral.
The company won the client by providing Scottish-made products along with an installation that was sympathetic to the historic importance of the royal estate.
In April 2022, AES Solar was awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in recognition of its work in sustainable development.
It has announced plans to upgrade its headquarters at Lea Road, Forres and develop a vacant brownfield site into additional manufacturing, office and storage space.
