Intelligent Energy Solutions (IES), the Leicester-based renewable energy specialist, has announced its first franchisee.
Smart Renewables Ltd joined the IES group in January and will operate from Bolton, Lancashire, serving the town as well as Bury, Wigan, Preston and Blackburn. Local entrepreneur, Ken Brown will manage the franchise, which will offer the full range of IES’ renewable energy solutions including solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal collectors, air and ground source heat pumps and rainwater harvesting systems.
“I am from a farming background so have always taken an interest in the environment,” explains Ken. “The renewable energy sector has rapidly developed over the last few years, and with it being recognised that renewables supply close to 20% of global electricity*, I see opportunities there to contribute towards the stability of our fragile environment in a meaningful way.
“IES is a well-established company with a good business model and sound management structure. Its ethos of adopting an advisory, educational role is what sets the business apart and what appealed to me when looking at franchise options. In addition, the team was realistic about their expectations and instilled us with confidence in their expertise and technical knowledge.” Ken concluded.
During its first year of trading, Smart Renewables Ltd will work closely with IES’ head office in Hamilton, Leicester to develop the brand and establish a strong presence in the North West, ensuring local people and businesses benefit from the many incentives offered by the Government and Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC).
Peter Searancke, managing director and founder of IES said: “It has always been part of the long term business development plan to expand geographically via a franchise scheme. As renewable energy becomes more prevalent, we want to be able to offer enthusiastic professionals the opportunity to enter the sector, secure in the knowledge they will have expert back-up.
“Ken is committed, reliable and passionate about a greener, cost-effective future – exactly the right profile for a franchisee. We look forward to helping him make a success of the business.”
IES prides itself on offering bespoke solutions to clients’ requirements, maximising the expertise of its in-house design and installation teams. The company was rewarded for its efforts with the national Energy Management Installer of the Year award at the Renewables Roadshow.
