From Pints to Panels: How a Conversation Sparked 10,000 Solar Installations

Almost five years ago, in a Ballyclare pub over a few pints, an idea was born that would go on to transform Genie Insights.

In October 2019, Billy Dougan, father of our founder Laura Reeve was approaching retirement after a long and respected career in the transport sector. While chatting with Managing Director Matt Reeve and his son-in-law Jordan, Billy began talking about solar panels for vehicles.

At the time, Genie Insights was still a small family business, working mainly in outsourced marketing and fleet management software. Matt admits he thought the idea sounded far-fetched — “a bloody stupid idea,” in his words. But by the third pint, Billy had painted such a convincing picture that Genie Insights was ready to explore the opportunity.

Within weeks, Billy and Matt were on a plane to Wales, where they met Daniel and James at BiPVco, specialists in lightweight, flexible solar technology. The partnership clicked immediately, but the first real breakthrough came when a major refrigeration equipment supplier introduced Genie Insights to one of the UK’s leading grocery retailers. Recognising the potential, Genie Insights partnered closely with BIPVco and its sister company MIPVco to adapt its primarily building-focused solar technology. Through joint R&D, the teams developed a solution tailored specifically for commercial vehicles, securing the first order.  Genie Insights was officially in the solar business.

Fast forward almost five years to the day, and the company has just sold its 10,000th solar panel.

It’s a milestone that reflects not only the innovation and hard work of the Genie Insights team, but also the spirit of collaboration that has defined the journey from day one. From electric vans and refrigerated trailers to waste and recycling fleets, Genie solar systems are now trusted by some of the UK and Ireland’s largest operators.

None of this would have been possible without that conversation — or without Billy’s vision, persistence and lifelong passion for transport.

So here’s to Billy, the third pint, and the start of something that has helped fleets reduce downtime, cut costs and take real steps towards sustainability.

And here’s to the next 10,000.

For more details or to explore how solar solutions can enhance your fleet, please visit www.genieinsights.com.