A rapidly expanding energy technology business has unveiled ambitious plans to recruit over 200 additional staff. This move comes in response to the growing demand for electric vehicles and smart meter technology.
The company, based in Lancashire, seeks to expand its workforce to around 600 employees within the next two years. Building work is set to commence on a new office site to support this growth.
Expanding Workforce and Facility Plans
The energy tech business, currently employing 380 people, is poised to grow significantly. This will be achieved by expanding their headquarters in Chorley. The construction of a new office near the existing headquarters is about to begin.
Chief Executive Matthew Hirst explained the logistical challenges faced by the company due to the current spread of staff across multiple buildings. The new arrangement aims to consolidate the workforce, increasing efficiency and cohesion.
Flexible Working Arrangements
Hirst highlighted the introduction of flexible working as a key strategy. This approach reduces the necessity for all employees to be present in the office simultaneously. He emphasised the potential space savings and enhanced employee satisfaction that flexible working can provide.
Utilizing a flexible work model allows employees to work from home several days a week. This change is expected to result in a reduction of approximately 20% in required office space.
Global Expansion and Collaboration
The acquisition by Accel-KKR has integrated the energy tech business into the larger ESG group. This acquisition has provided the company with a global focus.
Hirst mentioned that the company is collaborating with firms in the United States and Japan, reflecting their international growth strategy.
Development of Smart Meter Technology
The company has invested substantially in developing software for smart meter technology. This initiative supports the government’s goal to have smart meters in every home by 2020.
Their new smart platform enables energy companies to connect to smart meters securely. This technology allows for real-time updates and interactions, such as tariff changes and top-ups for pay-as-you-go customers.
Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions
In addition to smart meter technology, the company is advancing proof-of-concepts for electric vehicle charging points. Hirst pointed out the increasing prevalence of hybrids and pure electric vehicles on the roads.
The company believes that these developments will address the rising electricity demands and transform the energy industry.
Lessons Learned and Future Plans
Reflecting on their rapid growth, Hirst shared insights on space utilisation. The new office will incorporate more meeting rooms of smaller sizes to meet the business’s evolving needs.
This planned consolidation into two main sites will provide the necessary room for further expansion. The additional meeting rooms are expected to address current shortcomings in their facilities.
The energy tech company’s ambitious recruitment drive and infrastructural expansions underline its commitment to meeting the increasing demands of the industry.
With a focus on flexible working, global collaboration, and cutting-edge technology, they are well-positioned to lead the market. The planned developments demonstrate a proactive approach to future growth and industry challenges.