The CrowdHouse Energy™ and Newcastle College solar collaboration marks a major step forward in advancing solar education and innovation across the North East. As demand for skilled professionals in solar and renewable energy continues to rise, this initiative connects classroom learning with real-world experience, ensuring students are prepared to contribute to the UK’s clean energy future.
Empowering students through real-world solar experience
This collaboration brings together CrowdHouse Energy™, a North East–based provider of solar PV and clean energy solutions, and Newcastle College to empower students with real-world opportunities in solar energy. The collaboration will equip students with essential skills, hands-on experience, and professional exposure required to succeed in the rapidly expanding renewable sector.
Through regular guest lectures, internship opportunities, and collaborative projects, the collaboration will expose students to every stage of large-scale solar installations from concept and design to installation and community impact. This collaboration supports the North East region’s clean energy ambitions while helping to cultivate the next generation of innovators.
CrowdHouse Energy™ CEO Richard Blackwell delivered the inaugural guest lecture in Newcastle College’s Energy Academy series, engaging students in conversations about innovation, sustainability, and career opportunities within the energy sector.
“Our goal is to help students see the full spectrum of renewable energy,” Richard Blackwell explained. “Through collaborations like this, we can inspire the next generation to think differently about sustainability, technology, and their own role in powering a Net Zero future.”
The collaboration aligns closely with the growing national focus on green skills and sustainable technologies. By linking industry expertise with academic learning, CrowdHouse Energy™ is helping create pathways for students to transition directly into the clean energy workforce. This approach ensures the solar sector continues to evolve with new talent, fresh perspectives, and innovative thinking.
Strengthening solar skills across the North East
CrowdHouse Energy™ continues to work alongside Newcastle College faculty to facilitate internship placements that allow students to contribute to active solar projects. Additional training sessions will provide practical insight into solar performance optimisation, system design, and the socio-economic benefits of renewable energy.
David Laycock, Director of Energy at Newcastle College said: “At Newcastle College, we’re committed to giving our learners real-world experience that leads to skilled jobs in the green economy. By working with CrowdHouse Energy™ on guest lectures, live briefs and placements, our students will see the full lifecycle of solar projects and build the confidence and capabilities employers need across the North East.”
“People are at the heart of every innovation,” said Roseline Nkanta, Operations Manager at CrowdHouse Energy™. “By collaborating with Newcastle College, we are investing in the next generation of solar talent and opening doors to the many opportunities in the green sector.”
The CrowdHouse Energy™ and Newcastle College solar collaboration is part of a wider effort to strengthen the North East’s position as a hub for renewable innovation. Beyond technical learning, the collaboration aims to inspire students to pursue meaningful careers that contribute to the UK’s decarbonisation goals. Both organisations remain committed to ensuring this collaboration continues to grow, offering even more opportunities for hands-on engagement in solar PV technology and sustainable development.