Forres AES Solar businessman George Goudsmit, who sold Queen Elizabeth II solar panels, recognised at Moray Chamber Awards
A businessman who sold solar panels to the Queen for Balmoral Castle has received a lifetime achievement award.
George Goudsmit - founder of AES Solar in Forres - has served the Moray business community for nearly four decades, but was still surprised by his award win.
He had no idea he was due to receive the award at Moray Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards on Wednesday night.
“It’s very surprising,” he said after receiving his award at Lossiemouth’s Stotfield Hotel. “But it’s wonderful.
“We have very nice staff, clients and are a very good corporation. This is the cream on top.”
Mr Goudsmit - originally from The Netherlands - bought AES Solar out of the Findhorn Foundation when he moved to Scotland from London in 1989.
Back then, the company had a turnover of £30,000 and its focus was mainly heating.
The company, which employs 68 people, is now turning over £10 million annually and is the only manufacturer of solar thermal panels in the United Kingdom.
So renowned are his solar panels, that they are on Edinburgh Castle and, perhaps more impressively, Balmoral Castle.
This came after a meeting between Mr Goudsmit and Queen Elizabeth in 2016, he explained.
“About four or five years ago, I was introduced to the Queen,” he said. “I told her about solar panels and we talked about that for a minute or so.
“As she walked away, she turned around and said ‘maybe I should have solar panels on Balmoral?’.
“But you don’t give your business card to the Queen, do you?
“So I gave her two weeks to think about it - but she never called.
“So I wrote to Buckingham Palace and we ended up meeting at Balmoral and she bought a solar panel.”
Jamie Di Sotto, Commercial Director at AES Solar, added: “The business is a true Moray success story, much of which is built on the foundations set by George in the early days of the business.
“We are pleased to see his skill and dedication recognised.
“Although George has taken a step back from day-to-day business, he remains involved in the industry, continuing to explore new innovation in the ever-changing sector.”
Mr Goudsmit and AES Solar were not the only winners on the night.
Elgin Sports Community Trust and GAP Consultancy and Management were joint winners of the Most Promising Enterprise Award.
The Peter Wilson Award for Corportate Social Responsibility - named after the former Mackenzie and Cruickshank owner - went to The Macallan and Glenrothes distilleries.
SME of the Year went to Henderson’s Decorators and Pinz, while Elaine Sutherland of Orrin Restaurant and Riverside Kitchens scooped the Special Recognition Award.
Sarah Medcraf, CEO of Moray Chamber of Commerce said: “This year’s awards showcased the extraordinary talent, dedication, and passion of Moray’s business community.
“From emerging enterprises to established leaders, every winner embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation that drives our local economy.
“It was a privilege to celebrate their achievements and hear their inspiring stories.
“We look forward to continuing to support and champion businesses across Moray in the years to come.”
