Strategic Partnership to Drive Green Collar Skills and Innovation
E.ON Next is amplifying its dedication to a sustainable energy future by enhancing its collaboration with Dudley College of Technology to establish a pioneering net zero solutions training centre. This initiative aims to provide students with the essential skills required to excel in low-carbon technologies, positioning the West Midlands as a leader in energy innovation and ensuring it capitalises on the energy transition.
State-of-the-Art Training Centre for Low-Carbon Technologies
The newly developed solutions centre will act as a hub for both training and innovation, offering students and the broader community hands-on experience with cutting-edge low-carbon technologies, such as solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, and battery storage systems. This centre is designed to be fully self-sustained, incorporating advanced heat pump, solar, and EV charging technologies to minimise its carbon footprint.
Phil Gilbert, Net Zero Delivery Director at E.ON Next, commented: “The energy transition promises numerous benefits, including job creation, cleaner air, and more affordable energy. Our role is to harness our scale and innovation expertise to realise these benefits. Partnering with Dudley College is crucial to developing green skills and sustainable jobs in the West Midlands. This training centre will offer a unique environment for students and community members to interact with leading-edge technologies, keeping our region at the forefront of the low-carbon transition.”
Enhancing Education and Career Opportunities
Situated near E.ON’s Net Zero Training Academy in Kingswinford, Dudley College has played a significant role in preparing future energy professionals. The partnership has significantly enhanced the experience for students enrolled in T-Level programmes, which are two-year qualifications that integrate academic study with hands-on industry experience, equating to the depth of three A-Levels.
The Electrotechnical T-Level programme, in particular, has provided students with invaluable practical experience at E.ON, equipping them with the skills necessary for successful careers in the energy sector. Many apprentices have secured full-time roles as engineers and technicians, contributing to sustainable energy solutions for homes and businesses.
Karl Townsend, Curriculum Manager at Dudley College, noted: “The new centre was made possible through funding from the Local Skills Improvement Fund, aimed at developing high-level technical skills that align with local employer needs. The partnership with E.ON is a prime example of how a local college can work with an employer to enhance learners’ job prospects and skillsets. It’s fantastic to have E.ON as an active partner, recognising the benefits not only for their company but for the region by supporting training initiatives to create a skilled workforce for the future.”
Expanding the Model for Broader Impact
The expanded collaboration opens exciting opportunities for the local community, allowing residents to learn about and work with sustainable technologies. E.ON is exploring similar partnerships with other colleges across the UK to replicate this innovative model, ensuring that more communities can access state-of-the-art green energy training.
Phil Gilbert added: “The UK Government aims to create two million green jobs by 2030 to support a cleaner and more affordable energy future. We are committed to contributing to this goal by delivering the necessary jobs and skills, ensuring these opportunities are available throughout the Midlands and driving forward the new energy landscape.”
