Paul Fletcher, left, talks solar power on the roof of a Grange property. (Picture by Peter Frankland, 0873488)

ENERGY efficiency specialist E-Si has formed its own academy.

The E-Si Academy, which was started in September, has a simple mission – to train people to save the planet, according to chief executive Paul Fletcher.

‘The main focus of the academy is very much in-house at the moment, but eventually we want to take our knowledge out there into the community to make them more aware of renewable solutions, by way of talks and workshops with architects and the general public.

‘Every single employee in the business, which is 15 at the moment, is taking part in the training.

‘So it’s not just about embracing the apprentices, but also experienced plumbers and electricians who are not aware of the technologies and need a bit of help to get to grips with them.

‘It makes the team feel part of something and empowers them, knowing that they are making a difference.’

Mr Fletcher said he had found it difficult to find the staff equipped with the skills and experience needed to install and service modern renewable technologies such as solar power, heat pumps and heat recovery installations.