Our journey began in Sorell, Tasmania, when founder Horace Banks established H.R. Banks Electrical. Growing up surrounded by the electrical industry—his father and brothers worked for Tasmania’s Hydro Electric Commission—Horace developed a deep understanding of the trade from an early age.
Initially specialising in residential work, Horace was instrumental in wiring homes on the Tasman Peninsula as the Hydro brought electricity to the region. It wasn’t long before he expanded into commercial projects, taking on significant roles in some of Hobart’s landmark developments. His contributions included serving as Electrical Project Manager for the Tasman Bridge, as well as delivering works for A.G. Coombes and Simpson Pope Appliances.
Horace built strong relationships with local businesses, many of which we’re proud to still service today. In January 1984, he handed the business over to his son, Bruce.
Bruce Banks began his career apprenticing under his father and soon launched his own venture—B.J. Banks Electrical. Alongside his wife, Michelle, they continued to grow the business, steadily expanding both the scope and scale of its work. Under their leadership, the company developed a strong reputation for quality across residential and commercial projects, including specialist services for commercial kitchens.
B.J. Banks Electrical earned multiple industry accolades over the years, most notably the NECA 'Golden Hammer' National Award in 2003 for Development Excellence. Major projects delivered during this time included Hotel Collins, the Wellington Centre and Argyle Street Carpark extension, 40 Bathurst Street, 142 Elizabeth Street, and the Calvary Lenah Valley Hospital extension—all while maintaining the loyal customer base built by Horace.
After more than 35 successful years at the helm, Bruce retired in 2019, passing the business on to his son, Josh.
Now operating as Banks Electrical & Solar, the business is led by Josh and his wife, Phoebe. Together, they continue the family legacy—upholding a strong commitment to quality, while embracing the rapid evolution of the electrical industry.
Today, the company focuses predominantly on commercial work, offering a wide range of services, including:
From our roots in Sorell to our role in powering projects across Tasmania, Banks Electrical & Solar remains a trusted name in electrical and energy solutions—three generations strong.