Jersey Electricity will invest nearly £3 million over five years to train 36 apprentices as part of a new ‘Green Skills Academy’ being launched in partnership with Highlands College.
The utility company has stated that the initiative, which is supported by a newly developed facility at the College, will welcome an initial cohort of 12 apprentices in September.
They will have the opportunity to gain a UK-recognised trade qualification as well as practical trade experience, with JE providing mentoring and coaching to support the apprentices’ development.
Further cohorts are also set to join in September 2027 and September 2028.
We’re really pleased to be doing this at a time when governments are recognising the value of apprentices for the economy and individuals
JE chief executive Chris Ambler
The apprentices will work with local trades to support customers installing low-carbon heating solutions, with the first cohort expected to graduate in summer 2028 as fully qualified low-carbon heating technicians.
JE 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 continued.
“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.”
Mr Ambler added: “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”.
JE will 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.
Jo Terry-Marchant, principal of Highlands College, said the Green Skills Academy was “an important step towards equipping apprentices with the technical and trade skills needed to ensure Jersey can support the transition to net zero”.
“It’s a welcome addition to our College apprentice programme,” she added.
And Education Minister Rob Ward said the initiative “will boost our economy by
generating skilled jobs and strengthening apprenticeships”.
“By investing in these practical, future-focused skillsets we are not only supporting the island’s energy transition, but also opening pathways to meaningful, high quality employment for locals.”