A SCOTTISH solar energy firm has completed its acquisition of a heat pump specialist, making it one of the biggest renewable energy companies in the country.

The Moray-based AES Solar completed its purchase of heating systems specialists Black Isle Renewables of Thursday.

Black Isle Renewables, which is based in Dingwall, installs ground source and air source heat pumps across the north of Scotland and the Western Isles.

The 16 member team had 20 years of experience in renewable heating systems, with the deal expected to have no major impact on the workforce.

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AES Solar is the longest-established solar energy company in Europe, offering solar panel installation to homes and businesses throughout Scotland.

In February this year the company was taken over by its existing leadership team as part of a management buyout aimed at securing a long-term future.

Jamie Di Sotto, the 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.

AES Solar is now one of the biggest renewable energy companies in Scotland

“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.”

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Iain Thomas, the owner of Black Isle Renewables, added: “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.

The value of the deal has not been disclosed.