The new partnership with Brechin-based Forster Group will enable Scottish Gas to install solar power and battery technology to any eligible customer in Scotland, England and Wales for the first time, accelerating the nation’s transition towards renewable energy sources. Forster Group already provides solar services to one in five of all new homes in Scotland and has offices in Brechin, Angus, and Livingston.

Customers can currently benefit from a free consultation for solar panel installation tailored to their energy usage and home layout. A survey will give estimated costs, savings and installation options without any commitment.

Households could save between 75% and 90% off the cost of their electricity bill by installing solar panels, and latest industry figures show more than 183,000 installations were carried out across the UK last year.

Research in the British Gas Homes Index revealed that more than two-fifths (42%) of people said they were considering installing solar panels in the next two years to tackle climate change and save on bills.

Susan Wells, low carbon homes director at Scottish Gas, said: “We are committed to delivering the right products and solutions to help people cut carbon in their homes and save money on their bills in a way that works for them.

“We’re seeing our customers get more engaged with the benefits of solar energy, which is why we are extending our capabilities and partnering with Forster Group. Forster’s impressive track record in Scotland will allow us to meet the growing demand for solar and provide customers with expert advice and installations.”

Welcoming the partnership announcement, John Forster, chair and founder at Forster Group, said: “This partnership with Scottish Gas is a fantastic milestone on the Forster Group’s journey and will enable us to provide solar and battery storage installations to even more customers across Scotland. We are seeing solar power and battery technology playing an essential role in the country’s transition to Net Zero and with consumer appetite growing, more people now have the ability to take control of their own energy usage and make huge savings generating their own power.

“For over 30 years Forster Group has provided industry-leading solar and roofing solutions with a passion for innovation and the highest quality of customer service. We are excited to join forces with Scottish Gas and share their vision for a more sustainable energy future.”