Eco-Environments identify Darlington as 'hot bed'

Dec 9 2010 by Kelley Price, Evening Gazette

A FAST-GROWING renewables firm wants to spread its success to Darlington, but bosses say more consumer awareness is needed if the green energy sector is to fully take off.

Eco-Environments has identified the town as a “hot bed” location for renewable energy work and has opened a new office, with plans for a team of 20 or more.

The Liverpool-based company, which installs green energy systems from photovoltaic cells to air source heat pumps and wind turbines, has grown its turnover to £1.8m in less than three years - now it’s planning a UK-wide expansion.

However bosses claim consumers aren’t fully aware of the green incentives available if they install green energy systems - and it’s up to industry to spread the word.

Eco-Environments business development manager Peter Kelly said more publicity about feed-in tariffs, a cash incentive scheme that came into force in April, was needed if the company was to capitalise on the domestic property and construction markets.

“Darlington is central to Newcastle, Northumberland and North Yorkshire,” he said. “And it’s a hot bed for renewable energy, through the universities, agriculture and the private sector.

“Feed-in tariffs have been around since April, but people are missing out.

“They don’t know exactly what you can get. The Government brought in feed-in tariffs, but they’re not really being advertised. It’s down to people like ourselves to create that awareness. We need to push it.

“We have already made good contacts since moving to Darlington.

“During the coming months, we will be working closely with home owners in the region while also looking to develop strong strategic partnerships with architects, house builders, social landlords, property developers and business organisations.

“Hopefully this will lead to contracts and job creation. We are here for the long haul.”