Top 10 Best Solar Energy Companies in Forest of Dean

Solar Power Comes to the Forest of Dean

Solar energy has become one of the most accessible ways for households and businesses in the Forest of Dean to take control of their energy costs. Falling panel prices, improved battery technology and rising electricity tariffs have made solar an attractive investment. From cottages in St Briavels to farm buildings near Newent and industrial units in Cinderford, solar arrays are now a common sight across the district.

Although Gloucestershire is not the sunniest part of the UK, modern panels perform well even in cloudy conditions, and south-facing roofs in the Forest can generate substantial power throughout the year. This guide highlights ten solar energy companies serving the area, helping you choose an installer or partner suited to your needs.

Benefits of Going Solar

Solar panels reduce reliance on grid electricity, lowering monthly bills. Pairing panels with a battery allows you to store daytime energy for use in the evening. Through the Smart Export Guarantee, you can earn money for surplus electricity exported to the grid. Solar also increases energy resilience and can improve a property's energy performance rating, which is increasingly important to buyers and landlords. For businesses, solar provides predictable energy costs and supports sustainability commitments.

The Top 10 Solar Energy Companies Serving the Forest of Dean

1. Forest Eco Systems

Forest Eco Systems, based in Huntley, is a local specialist in solar PV and battery storage, alongside heat pumps. Its proximity to the Forest makes site visits and aftercare straightforward. The company designs systems that consider roof orientation, shading from trees and household consumption, which is especially important in a wooded district.

2. PBT Installations

PBT Installations focuses on integrated solar and battery systems for homes and businesses across the Forest of Dean. It emphasises careful system design, ensuring clients get the right balance of panels and storage. Its MCS-certified installations allow customers to benefit from export payments.

3. Byard Electrical & Renewables

Byard Electrical & Renewables offers solar, battery and EV charger installations throughout the region. Its experience as an electrical contractor means it can handle consumer unit upgrades and complex wiring alongside solar projects, providing a joined-up service for households electrifying their homes.

4. Infinity Energy Services

Infinity Energy Services provides solar and battery solutions across the Forest, including well-known home battery systems. It is known for neat installations and helpful explanations of how batteries, inverters and smart tariffs work together to maximise savings and resilience.

5. Solarsense

Solarsense is an established solar installer serving the South West and South Wales. It designs and installs systems for homes, farms and commercial buildings, with experience on larger roof-mounted and ground-mounted arrays. Its commercial expertise is relevant to Forest businesses with significant roof space.

6. Octopus Energy

Octopus Energy offers solar panel and battery installation alongside its range of smart tariffs and export deals. Customers can combine installation and supply under one provider, simplifying the process. Its flexible export tariffs reward households for sending solar power to the grid at peak times.

7. Good Energy

Good Energy provides solar installation and has a long history of supporting small-scale renewable generators. It offers export payments and green electricity supply, making it a strong option for customers who want a single renewable-focused company for both generation and supply.

8. Ecotricity

Stroud-based Ecotricity is a Gloucestershire green energy pioneer that has developed its own solar generation alongside wind. While primarily known as a supplier, its commitment to renewable generation and local roots make it a natural partner for Forest households seeking green electricity to complement their own solar output.

9. Lightsource bp

Lightsource bp develops large-scale solar farms across the UK and internationally. For Forest of Dean landowners with suitable fields, utility-scale solar can offer long-term lease income. Its projects often incorporate biodiversity improvements and continued agricultural use, such as sheep grazing.

10. Bristol Energy Cooperative

Bristol Energy Cooperative installs solar on community buildings and land, funded by local investors. It shows how community-owned solar can benefit schools, village halls and community centres. Forest communities exploring their own energy projects often look to it as an inspiring model.

How to Choose a Solar Installer

Always choose an MCS-certified installer to ensure eligibility for the Smart Export Guarantee. Look for membership of a consumer code such as RECC or HIES, and check reviews from customers in your area. A good installer will carry out a detailed site survey, assess shading from trees, which is particularly relevant in the Forest, and provide realistic generation estimates.

Compare warranties on panels, inverters and batteries, and ask about monitoring apps and aftercare. Listed buildings and properties in conservation areas or the Wye Valley National Landscape may need planning advice, so choose an installer familiar with local requirements.

Solar Trends in the Forest of Dean

Battery storage is now included in many new installations, and hybrid inverters make it easier to add storage later. All-black panels with a sleeker appearance are popular for traditional properties. Smart tariffs let households charge batteries cheaply overnight and export at peak times. Commercial and agricultural solar is growing, as businesses seek protection from volatile energy prices.

Final Thoughts

Solar energy is a practical, proven way for Forest of Dean residents and businesses to cut bills and carbon. With experienced local installers and established national providers serving the area, it has never been easier to make the switch. Take time to compare quotes, check credentials and choose a partner who understands the unique conditions of the Forest.