Colchester Institute has launched a new half-a-million-pound Net Zero and Renewables Centre.

The 300 square metre facility at the Colchester Campus was officially opened by Jonathon Cuthbertson, Essex County Council's head of skills and employability.

The centre was made possible by a £500k investment project, largely funded by a grant from the Local Skills Improvement Fund.

The project was jointly sponsored by Samsung UK and Worcester Bosch, with the support of renewable energy specialist Gasway, who helped design and install the technologies.

The new centre will ensure the college can meet the demand for renewable energy skills across both further and higher education, as the UK continues its decarbonisation efforts.

Gary Horne, deputy chief executive at Colchester Institute, said: "The launch of this facility marks another significant milestone towards achieving our net zero strategy and demonstrates our commitment to the Essex Green Skills Infrastructure Plan.

"The project has been a real collaboration with industry leaders, and we are so grateful to have the partnership support in place that has provided the latest technology, equipment and advice to make our vision a reality."

The centre is equipped with facilities to deliver 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.

It also has spaces for practical learning and classroom space with interactive screens.

Alison Andreas, principal and chief executive, said: "Colchester Institute continues to support the Essex Green Skills Review by developing green skills content across all our Level 3 programmes, and it goes without saying that our city needs this facility to help deliver on the ambitious new housing targets set for future decades, and also to help homeowners and landlords with retrofit technology to reduce energy costs."

A spokesperson for Colchester Institute concluded: "The training centre is not just a commercial asset but also an educational resource for Colchester Institute's employers and students.

"It will support apprenticeships in low carbon emissions technologies and enhance awareness of renewable energy among full-time students in various disciplines, including engineering and the trades.

"The launch of this centre positions Colchester Institute as a regional leader in renewable energy training."