Powering Essex: delivering critical green skills through strategic LSIF investment

In September 2024, Colchester Institute opened a new 300m² Net Zero and Renewables Centre. The college’s £500k investment project, largely enabled by a grant from the local skills improvement fund (LSIF), was jointly sponsored by Samsung UK and Worcester Bosch in a four-way partnership arrangement that included regional renewable energy specialist Gasway who helped specify, design, and install the technologies.

The modern facilities will provide an opportunity to deliver a range of essential new skills in areas such as air source and ground source heat pumps, solar PV, solar thermal, hybrid systems, battery storage, and electric vehicle charging points. The centre also has practical spaces where hands-on learning can take place, and classroom space with interactive screens supporting theoretical knowledge delivered to commercial delegates, apprentices, and school leavers.

The new facilities support apprenticeship training in low carbon emissions technologies and enhance awareness of renewable energy among full-time students in various disciplines, including engineering and the trades. The college also plans to become an accredited training provider for major manufacturers, offering comprehensive training courses on new and emerging products and technologies.