Solar panels project provides training opportunities

A solar panel scheme run by partnership with E.ON and Nottingham City Council has just been completed in Aspley, providing cheaper energy for residents and training for engineers who did work experience on the project.

It is one of the single largest domestic PV schemes ever delivered in the UK, with solar panels installed on 592 council homes, with energy savings estimated to total £72,000 per year.

The seven month project also brought training and work experience opportunities for ten people looking for work in the renewable energy sector, providing over 700 hours of work experience and 75 hours of training time.

Thomas Buss, head of microgeneration at E.ON’s Sustainable Energy business, said: “This project has been a great success, not only for the residents who are set to benefit from lower bills, but for the trainee electricians who have experienced first-hand what it's like to work in the fast-growing sustainable energy sector.

“The skills and knowledge they've acquired will equip them for new employment opportunities and provide Nottingham with the skilled workers it needs to support its renewable energy future.

“Nottingham is a great example of a city working hard to build its sustainable energy provision by boosting the local workforce, and we're pleased to be able to partner with the city council to provide the training and experience that will enable local people to contribute positively to the city and the region's economy.”

Nottingham City Council’s portfolio holder for energy and sustainability, Cllr Alan Clark, said: “We have ensured that this large-scale infrastructure project has boosted the city’s economy by providing training opportunities for local people.

“It’s great that we’ve been able to equip our local electricians with the skills, knowledge and practical experience they need so that they're ready for work. We are now supporting the group of trainees to find permanent jobs and are speaking to various partners who may be able to provide work suitable longer term employment opportunities.”