JERSEY Electricity is partnering with Highlands College to launch a training programme that will see the utility company invest nearly £3 million over five years to train 36 apprentices.
Supported by a newly-developed facility at Highlands College, the Green Skills Academy will offer the opportunity to gain a UK-recognised trade qualification as well as practical trade experience.
An initial cohort of 12 apprentices will begin their training at Highlands College on a day-release basis this September, with further cohorts joining in September 2027 and September 2028.
The apprentices will be working with local trades to support customers installing low-carbon heating.
JE will be providing mentoring and coaching and will also fund 75% of the apprentices’ salaries in their first year, with trade partners contributing the remaining 25%. In the second year, salaries will be shared equally between JE and the trade partners.
Those joining in the first cohort are expected to graduate in summer 2028 as fully-qualified low-carbon heating technicians.
The utility company’s chief executive, Chris Ambler, described the Green Skills Academy as “more than just a training programme”.
“It’s a strategic investment in Jersey’s sustainable future; we are building an education facility to deliver Jersey’s low-carbon future,” he said.
“By collaborating with government and industry and by directly investing in local talent, we will ensure the right capacity and skills needed to support the Island’s transition to low-carbon heating technologies are available,” he continued.
“We’re really pleased to be doing this at a time when governments are recognising the value of apprentices for the economy and individuals.”
He cited a 500% increase in demand for air source heat pumps in 2025, explaining that JE believed there would be “significant work for the apprentices over the next two decades in Jersey” and “a huge opportunity to build rewarding careers in the energy and trade sectors”.
