Clean energy-tech specialist, Aira, has opened a new academy and hub in Crayford, South London.

The 1,300 square meter Acorn Industrial Estate training facility will extend the Swedish company’s reach across London and the South of England. The Academy is dedicated to delivering high-quality training for the Aira sales team, designers, installers, electricians and all those involved in heat pump installations, from London to the Midlands and Cornwall to Norfolk.

Earlier this year, Aira’s market research found that more than one in two Londoners (52%) said that they are likely to install a heat pump in their home when renovating their home or replacing their heating system, showing a growing consumer interest in clean energy-tech solutions.

According to the Greater London Authority’s latest Energy Planning Monitoring Report, 88% of all proposed developments in the capital included heat pumps.

Aira’s new London base will be led by Georgia Laws, a former Ealing Council officer and international teacher who joined Aira to pursue her passion for helping homes reach net zero in an accessible, affordable and hassle-free way.

“We will focus on training individuals to become the next generation of heat pump installers and increasing the green skills workforce,” says Georgia Laws. “The long-term goal is to offer people with no prior experience, or those at the start of their career, high-quality training so they too can join the Aira family and much-needed clean energy revolution.”

The new academy and hub will create 140 skilled jobs in the local area and facilitate training for thousands over the coming decade. Daniel Francis, the newly elected MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, was on hand for the official opening at Acorn Industrial Park. He says:

“Aira will make a fantastic contribution to the local economy and community with sustainable and affordable heating solutions. It’s great to see them investing in the next generation of highly skilled clean energy professionals who will help to transition the region’s homes to low carbon heating. I look forward to following the hubs growth and working closely with them to implement the government’s Warm Homes Plan to upgrade British homes, so they are cheaper to run and less exposed to the price shocks we have seen in recent years.”