For software architect, Russ Freeman, the rising cost of his electricity bill and the idea of becoming greener were the incentives he needed to install solar panels on the roof of his house. Six months on and he’s reaping the rewards.

Ironically Russ works for an energy company so is all too aware of the increasing cost of electricity. Installing solar panels was a “no-brainer” as far as he was concerned. As a self confessed “geek”, Russ loves nothing more than being able to monitor his energy usage, smug in the knowledge that his renewable energy investment will provide a great return by reducing his energy bills.

So what made him take the plunge? A knock at the door from a solar panel installation firm one evening got Russ thinking about the benefits of renewable energy. Aware that their quote seemed really high, a quick chat with his neighbour (who was already benefiting from his own solar panels) led to the recommendation of Cheltenham-based Forever Green Energy.

For Russ, Forever Green Energy’s non-pushy and transparent approach sealed the deal. “The sales guy was really down to earth. He looked at my quotes and told me they were crazy considering all I needed was a simple system. I really appreciated his honesty.”

In fact, it turned out Forever Green Energy’s quote was really competitive and almost half the price of the cold calling solar panel installation firm.

On the day of installation Russ was also impressed with Forever Green Energy’s work ethic. The installation team were friendly, prompt, tidy and up to speed with what was required and got straight to work in the pouring rain. As consolation, Russ treated them to his “posh coffee” and forgave them for demolishing his biscuit supply.

Six months on and he’s noticing the benefits and savings, “I have a lot of home entertainment equipment and computers. I used to worry about how much they were costing me to run, along with the other household appliances like the fridge, when I was out at work all day. Now it’s good to know that they are essentially running for free, covered by the electricity generated by my solar panels.”

As a driver of an electric car, Russ also discovered another benefit from installing solar panels, “I usually charge my car at night using Economy 7, but at the weekends I now charge off the roof which gives me great pleasure knowing I’m using free energy generated by the sun.”

Russ admits he’s now a complete advocate of solar panels and has even recommended them to his father who is based in Devon. As for the future, he’s considering battery storage to further maximise the solar energy he generates, as well as heat pumps.

How does he sum up Forever Green Energy? “A local company that hasn’t lost touch with its customers and offers a great deal when it comes to renewable energy solutions.”